Daredevil’s Shocking Finale: What It Means for Marvel’s Thunderbolts!

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The comeback of Wilson Fisk in Disney+’s “Daredevil: Born Again” wasn’t just about settling scores with Matt Murdock; it represented a strategic and destructive power play that significantly reshaped the urban landscape of New York City, most notably for its masked guardians. By climbing the political ladder to become Mayor, Fisk initiated a string of drastic actions that portrayed all vigilantes as adversaries of the state, thus instilling an era of dread and repression. His initial bold move was the introduction of the “Safer Streets Initiative.” This wasn’t a sincere effort to reduce crime, but rather a broad mandate aimed at banning all vigilante activity within New York City. To Fisk, there was no difference between Daredevil’s heroic deeds and Jessica Jones’ actions and the lawless activities of criminals. In his perspective, every masked individual was a threat to his power and his idea of a controlled city.

Considering the unstable situation in New York during Fisk’s reign, the Thunderbolts‘ operations could face challenges beyond simply dealing with Sentry.

WARNING: Spoilers below for Season 1 of Daredevil: Born Again

Fisk’s Policies Outlined

To ensure the success of the “Safer Streets Initiative,” Fisk created the ominous Anti-Vigilante Task Force (AVTF). This wasn’t your typical police unit; it was a carefully selected group of ethically compromised officers who reported directly to Fisk and operated without any fear of legal consequences. Their methods were harsh, their authority unbridled, and their fondness for characters like the Punisher, symbolized by their use of his skull emblem, hinted at their objective: to eradicate vigilantes using whatever means necessary. Bullseye’s attempt on Fisk’s life in the final episode provided the ideal excuse for Fisk’s most drastic action: the declaration of martial law. Taking advantage of the subsequent turmoil, Fisk effectively suspended civil rights, giving the AVTF even more power to detain anyone suspected of vigilante activity or dissent. The idea of due process faded as Fisk’s iron grip grew stronger around the city.

Initially seen as beacons of hope, vigilantes were pushed into obscurity, their capacity to safeguard the innocent greatly limited. This predicament led to a sense of isolation, as Fisk’s laws and the unyielding hunt by the AVTF created insurmountable barriers, making their struggle against crime all the more perilous and arduous. The actions of Wilson Fisk in “Daredevil: Born Again” turned New York City into a war zone where the idea of masked heroism was outlawed. Fisk’s anti-vigilante campaign wasn’t about safety; it was about amassing total control and suppressing anyone who dared to challenge him. The scene is now set for a potential intense confrontation, with the Thunderbolts operating in Fisk’s New York in the upcoming movie “Thunderbolts”.

What Sort of New York City Will the Thunderbolts Encounter?

The “Safer Streets Initiative” and the constant presence of AVTF might make life extremely difficult for those acting as unsanctioned heroes, which could significantly affect teams like the Thunderbolts. They would have to deal not only with criminal activities but also a law enforcement system that may view them as vigilantes, even if they are carrying out missions approved by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Kingpin’s efforts to discredit vigilantes could sway public opinion, making the Thunderbolts’ tasks in New York City more complex, particularly if they need public trust or if their actions are misinterpreted as unauthorized vigilante actions causing damage.

Intriguingly, the iron-fisted rule Wilson Fisk seems to be imposing on New York City following his relentless campaign against vigilantes could have sparked Valentina Allegra de Fontaine’s initiative to assemble the Thunderbolts. The growing power he wields, the establishment of his ruthless AVTF, and the overall atmosphere of fear and curtailed liberties might present a distinctive blend of challenges and prospects that demand a covert, capable team like the Thunderbolts.

Viewing it from Valentina’s point of view, Fisk’s New York City seems like a time bomb ready to explode. His aggressive methods may foster resentment and secret uprisings, possibly escalating instability that might catch the eye of domestic or even global powers. A superhero team officially recognized could be too prominent and politically complex to manage such a volatile and potentially dangerous scenario. This is where the Thunderbolts, a squad made up of individuals with dubious backgrounds who often work covertly, could be incredibly useful.

Additionally, Fisk’s emphasis on traditional “vigilantes” might overlook certain weaknesses that a more unconventional squad like the Thunderbolts could capitalize on. These individuals may be able to function in manners eluding the Automated Vehicle and Transit Facility’s detection system, using strategies and personnel that don’t align with Fisk’s limited perception of a masked menace. For instance, Bucky Barnes, who has been a well-known superhero and national icon for quite some time in the Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline, is now commanding the Thunderbolts. This makes it challenging for Fisk to label the Thunderbolts as “vigilantes,” given Bucky’s esteemed reputation in public opinion.

Fundamentally, Fisk’s influence in New York might foster a politically volatile and potentially perilous atmosphere, marked by intense suspicion towards individuals who deviate from his legal boundaries. This could substantially impact the developments seen in the upcoming Thunderbolts* movie.

Thunderbolts* lands in theaters on May 2nd.

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2025-04-19 06:41