The Oswegonian

The Independent Student Newspaper of Oswego State

DATE

Apr. 24, 2024 

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Laker Review

Netflix’s latest hero ‘Luke Cage’ gives mature fans quality show

Luke Cage is the newest addition to the Marvel televison franchise with super human strength and impenetrable skin. “Luke Cage” is a spin-off from one of the characters in the Netflix original “Jessica Jones” which successfully set the stage for the “Luke Cage” story line that takes off running in the new   Netflix series.

The series starts off with a disappointingly long and dull introduction. Once you make it through this, however, Marvel does not disappoint. The show keeps dedicated fans pleased with continuous references to other Marvel works so first time viewers do not feel left out. “Luke Cage” is also filled with a modern soundtrack that is unique yet fitting for the scenes and perfect for the music loving viewers.

“Luke Cage” is a good show for mature audiences. The rampant sexual content, profanity and extreme violence do make it unfit for younger viewers. For older viewers, however, it is a good show to watch an episode or two of after a long day. The hour long show is a good alternative to a movie, for the days when you need to procrastinate for longer than thirty minutes but are not willing to commit to a two hour or more long movie.

“Luke Cage” is well thought out with subtle symbolism evident throughout the show. At times it is a bit cheesy with meaningful lines that are just a little too much for the superhuman genre. With too intense of meaningful stares and oddly placed long and deep lines at unfitting times such as the middle of a fight scene, it can seem just a little too unrealistic, even for a show about someone with impenetrable skin.

“Luke Cage” is mixed with all of America’s favorites. The hero-in-plain-clothing craze is evident with Cage’s classic look of fighting crime in a hooded sweatshirt. “Luke Cage” is also riddled with the positive themes of friends and familial ties, loyalty and helping those who help you.

The idea of good versus evil gives “Luke Cage” the vigilante hope that draws in viewers time and time again. In the case of “Luke Cage,” it is Cage against the organized crime of Harlem driven by the same values that many of us hold for ourselves, including loyalty and love which makes “Luke Cage” relatable and awe-inspiring to the everyday viewer.

Despite the minor grievances of some “trying too hard” moments, overall “Luke Cage” is a winner. After watching the first few episodes, the viewer is hooked and ready to see what happens next. Marvel has not disappointed and continues to provide some great material for their viewers.

Due to the sexual content, violence and profanity, “Luke Cage” is not recommended to watch with younger audiences. It is, however, a good option for a more mature audience. Prepare yourself to see what happens in the life of the newest Marvel superhuman.