Episode 7: “Semper Fidelis”
Putting Frank on trial literally and figuratively finally allows for the season’s obligatory trial scene. Last season’s forays into law were looked down on as extraneous but I enjoy them (on a similar note, I was a little disappointed that Jessica Jones didn’t incorporate at least a few of her P.I. cases outside of Kilgrave). Also, the idea of Punisher in jail and on trial is potent, conjuring Rorschach’s famous phrase “I’m not locked in with you. You’re locked in here with me!”
This Elektra arc is turning out very samey. They meet up, they have belligerent sexual tension, they beat up folks and talk about some ledger. There, the show could have saved all of us a lot of time with that line as the opening text. I don’t want to get overly negative; the show is far from bad but it’s certainly stronger in some areas than others and, anyway, it doesn’t seem to capable of correcting its flaws. Foggy remains the weakest link by far, to the point where it’s hard to feel anything but pity for Elden Henson. You can feel the show straining to give him material that will change perceptions but perhaps its just the character and the actor, a combination that just can’t get away from words like “whiny.” That ending though? Boss. Cliffhangers are useless when binge-watching but teases are welcome. The Yakuza’s secret giant hole Daredevil and Elektra discover couldn’t be a better one
NEW DRINKING GAME ADDITION: Every time Frank uses his favorite curse: “shitbag.” Bottoms up!
