Defenders Saga Watch Order [Where To Watch]

 

Defenders Saga is a series of shows that are based on Marvel heroes. The Avengers are the top-tier heroes like Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, etc. The Defenders are informally described as street-level heroes.

 

They are a group of vigilante heroes and Marvel Knights working to keep New York City safe from crime, evil, and injustice. The Defender Saga has a collection of Netflix series based on Jessica Jones, Daredevil, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist.

 

They each have their own Netflix series, and they come together as the Team Defenders in the 2017 crime drama, The Defenders. We have also included a spin-off show with The Punisher.

 

All these Marvel Knights have worked to keep the city of New York free from crime and injustice in their own limited means. These heroes are not gods or benevolent aliens but regular Earthlings with gritty determination, a strong sense of justice, and a difficult past that shaped their powers.

 

If you are a Marvel fan who has read the comics, then you must be aware of the backstories, in-n-out of each of the heroes from The Defenders team. For the other novices and the uninitiated readers, Entoin has created this article to invite you into the Defenders universe.

 

We have six Netflix series based on each of the lead characters, together and individually.

 

 

 

Defenders Saga Chronological Watch Order

 

Each of the shows in the Defenders saga are interconnected through the timelines with each other and also with the Avengers movies. They all refer to the events of Infinity War as the Incident and use it as a point of reference.

 

At the same time, key events and characters of each of the series in the saga crossover appear in the other shows as well. Hence, watching the Defenders Saga in the chronological order given below is important.

 

 

 

 

Where To Watch The Defenders Saga

 

When Marvel Cinematic Universe launched the Defenders saga, it was in conjunction with Netflix; thereby, all the shows were available exclusively on the Netflix streaming app. However, after the MCU came under the control of Disney Studios, the contracts with Netflix were cancelled.

 

This is not a reason for concern as all the shows are available for viewing on the Disney Plus app from March 2022. The future of the series is ambiguous as neither the MCU nor Disney Studios have confirmed any news about the renewal of the different shows in the Defenders series.

 

Since the production was under Netflix, the content was gritty, violent, and not appropriate for all age groups. It had a noir theme that attracted the audience. However, this dark ambience does not suit the family-friendly Disney audience.

 

As Disney has very strict rules about age-appropriate content, shows like Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Punisher, etc., will find it difficult to get a slot. These shows are available for viewing with updated ratings and restrictions in place.

 

Although it is good news to the fans, they are worried about the future seasons of their favourite shows.

 

 

 

Defenders Saga In Order

 

The MCU has been busy with different phases of superhero movies and TV series. After creating the Avengers series and individual shows for each hero, the MCU has moved on to other phases, where it created series like WandaVision, Loki, Falcon and The Winter Soldier, etc.

 

This has opened up the opportunity for Netflix to enter the scene with its own set of Marvel Knights series. As part of the Netflix Marvel series, they created the Defenders series, and the first hero was Daredevil.

 

1. Daredevil

 

In 2015, Netflix and the MCU created a new series based on Matt Murdock, a vigilante lawyer who worked as a lawyer by day and a crime fighter by night.

 

The series ran for three seasons and was well-received by the audience and critics. Charlie Cox starred as Murdock, a blind lawyer. Blinded as a child, Murdock develops extraordinary senses, enabling him to fight crime as a masked vigilante by night and work as a lawyer by day.

 

Set in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City, the show follows Murdock’s journey as he confronts the corruption and crime that plague his city. He faces a formidable nemesis in Wilson Fisk, a powerful and ruthless businessman with his own sinister agenda.

 

With the help of his close friends Foggy Nelson and Karen Page, Murdock strives to protect his neighbourhood and seek justice, often questioning the fine line between being a hero and a vigilante.

 

The second season of Daredevil introduced the character of Frank Castle, who goes on to become another vigilante by the name of The Punisher. He got his own show from Netflix in 2017.

 

2. Jessica Jones

 

Jessica Jones is a captivating and gritty crime drama about a private investigator with a troubled past who has superpowers. Based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name, the show delves into the dark and psychological aspects of being a superhero.

 

Jessica Jones, portrayed brilliantly by Krysten Ritter, is a former superhero who now runs Alias Investigations in New York City. Her life takes a tumultuous turn when she encounters Kilgrave (David Tennant), a mind-controlling villain with a disturbing history with Jessica.

 

This encounter brings to light Jessica’s painful past and her struggle to come to terms with her powers and the consequences of her actions. The series masterfully tackles sensitive themes such as trauma, abuse, and addiction while maintaining a noir-style atmosphere.

 

Jessica is a complex and flawed protagonist, grappling with her inner demons and trying to maintain a sense of justice despite her reluctance to be a hero. The supporting cast, including best friend Trish Walker (Rachael Taylor) and love interest Luke Cage (Mike Colter), adds depth to the narrative and explores their own personal journeys.

 

With its gripping storyline, powerful performances, and exploration of darker themes, Jessica Jones resonates with viewers, offering a fresh perspective on what it truly means to be a superhero and the strength needed to confront one’s past while striving for redemption and justice.

 

3. Luke Cage

 

Luke Cage is another MCU hero. He was introduced in the Jessica Jones series and received his own spin-off drama. Set in the gritty and crime-ridden neighbourhood of Harlem, the show follows the life of Luke Cage, played by Mike Colter.

 

He is a bulletproof, superpowered ex-convict seeking to rebuild his life. After gaining his abilities through a botched experiment, Luke becomes a reluctant hero with a strong moral compass. As he tries to maintain a low profile, Luke finds himself drawn into the struggles of his community and becomes a symbol of hope for Harlem’s residents.

 

However, his attempts to stay out of trouble are challenged when he faces formidable adversaries, including crime lord Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes (Mahershala Ali) and the cunning Mariah Dillard (Alfre Woodard).

 

The series deftly combines elements of superhero action with themes of social justice, identity, and community empowerment. It addresses real-world issues like gentrification, racial discrimination, and corruption, making it a socially relevant and impactful narrative.

 

Luke Cage is a remarkable and culturally significant entry into the Marvel Netflix universe.

 

4. Iron Fist

 

Iron Fist is a superhero drama that explores the journey of Danny Rand, played by Finn Jones, a young billionaire presumed dead after a tragic plane crash. Fifteen years later, he returns to New York City with exceptional martial arts skills and the mystical power of the Iron Fist.

 

As the rightful heir to the Rand Corporation, he struggles to reclaim his family’s legacy while battling dark forces that threaten his city. Danny faces numerous challenges, including corporate intrigue, personal demons, and the shadowy organisation known as the Hand.

 

Along the way, he forms alliances with Colleen Wing (Jessica Henwick), a skilled martial artist, and his childhood friend Joy Meachum (Jessica Stroup). Together, they navigate complex moral dilemmas and seek to uncover the truth behind his parents’ deaths.

 

While “Iron Fist” received mixed reviews, the series offers action-packed fight sequences and intriguing elements of Eastern mysticism. It interconnects with other Marvel Netflix shows, creating a cohesive universe that expands the Marvel Cinematic Universe on the small screen.

 

5. The Punisher

 

The Punisher is a gripping and intense addition to the MCU, centred around the complex character of Frank Castle, portrayed by Jon Bernthal. A former Marine, Castle transforms into the merciless vigilante known as the Punisher after his family is tragically murdered in a criminal conspiracy.

 

Fueled by grief and seeking justice, he becomes a one-man army, methodically taking down those responsible for his loss. The show delves deep into Castle’s psyche, exploring the psychological toll of his violent crusade.

 

As he uncovers a web of corruption and conspiracy, Castle forms alliances with unexpected allies like Micro (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), a tech-savvy hacker, and Karen Page (Deborah Ann Woll), a journalist with a connection to his past. ”The Punisher” distinguishes itself with its realism, relentless action, and exploration of moral ambiguity.

 

It challenges conventional notions of heroism and raises thought-provoking questions about vengeance, redemption, and the consequences of violence. The series captivates audiences, showcasing the darker and more complex aspects of the Marvel universe.

 

6. The Defenders

 

The Defenders is a thrilling Netflix miniseries that brings together four Marvel street-level heroes – Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist – as they unite to combat a common enemy.

 

The series masterfully weaves their individual storylines into a cohesive narrative centred around the enigmatic and dangerous Alexandra (Sigourney Weaver). As the criminal organisation known as the Hand threatens New York City, the reluctant team of vigilantes must overcome their personal differences and learn to work together to protect the city they hold dear.

 

Packed with action, camaraderie, and character development, “The Defenders” showcases a unique ensemble of heroes, making it an exhilarating and memorable entry into the Marvel Netflix universe.

 

 

 

Latest News on Defenders Saga

 

If you are sad about the damper news that was shared, there is some happy news and hope up ahead. As part of Phase 5 of MCU productions, Disney has announced a new show called Echo that features Daredevil and Kingpin, and they also revived Daredevil: Born Again.

 

The current writers’ strike has halted the production work on the show but it has been confirmed that the latest Daredevil: Born Again series will bring back Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Jon Bernthal.

 

This show is scheduled to premiere on Disney Plus in early 2024. While the other show-runners from Luke Cage, Iron Fist and Jessica Jones have not received any news on the revival of their shows, the fans are still hopeful.

 

When asked about the future of the other Marvel Knights, Kevin Feige has only said, “Never say never” keeping hopes alive for all the fans.

 

 

Top Episodes of the Defenders Saga:

 

The Defenders Saga, be it Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, The Punisher, Iron Fist, or The Defenders, has many gripping and entertaining episodes in them. Since each of these shows has fully captured the essence of the characters from the comic books, we can be assured of the authenticity of the Marvel characters.

 

Yet, for every Marvel fan, there are a few episodes that are favourites among others. Here is my list of the best episodes from the Defenders Saga:  

 

 

 

Top FAQs on the Netflix Marvel Series

 

1. Why are the Marvel series moving from Netflix?

The licence for making a series specifically on Marvel Knights was acquired by Netflix from MCU. As Marvel Studios was acquired by Disney and the licence held by Netflix expired in 2022, the shows were cancelled on Netflix.

 

Due to the success of the series, Disney Plus started to stream them on its app to enhance the audience experience.

 

2. How long does it take to watch the entire Defenders saga?

The total time to watch all the shows of The Defenders saga is roughly 145 hours. You can catch all the shows on your Disney Plus account.

 

3. Who is more powerful in The Defenders?

Luke Cage can be considered the most powerful Marvel character in the Netflix Marvel series. Due to the failed experiments done on him, he has developed indestructible skin that is virtually bulletproof.

 

Coupled with a youth spent in gang wars and his brawls in prison, Luke Cage developed a strong fighting style and experience that trumps all other Defenders like Daredevil, Iron Fist, etc.

 

4. Will there be a season 3 of Iron Fist?

As of now, it seems unlikely that Iron Fist will be renewed for a new season. The show was created as a part of the  Netflix Marvel series, but after March 2022, all licences from Netflix to produce Marvel characters have been cancelled.

 

The existing shows have been transferred to the Disney Plus app, but no news has been given on the renewal of Iron Fist.

 

5. Is The Punisher before or after Daredevil?

The character, The Punisher, was introduced in the second season of Daredevil. He is Frank Castle, an ex-serviceman who has lost his wife and family to corruption. The trauma of his loss turns him into a vigilante, seeking vengeance on the perpetrators.

 

While Matt Murdock brings Castle to justice, the alter ego has been given a new lease of life on the spin-off show The Punisher.