Summary

Echo is receiving praise for its fight scenes, gritty storytelling, and Alaqua Cox’s lead performance as the superhero. The series is being described as more “mature” than previous Marvel shows on Disney+, with lower stakes and a focus on the new Spotlight brand. While there is some criticism of the pacing and creative decisions, it is agreed that Daredevil fans will likely enjoy what Echo has to offer.

The first reactions to the latest Marvel Disney+ series, Echo, are now in. And it sounds like Daredevil fans are going to love it. The first two episodes have now been shown to critics, with many heaping praise on the fight scenes, the more grounded, grittiness of the story, and an incredible lead performance from Alaqua Cox as the titular superhero.

What’s on Disney Plus described the series as being more “mature” than what Marvel has previously released on Disney+, praising both Kingpin and the action on display.

“More mature than other #disneyplus #marvel shows, great fight scene. Loved Kingpin. Fab Action. Feels more like ‘TV’. Lower stakes, perfect for the new Spotlight brand. Can’t wait to see the other episodes.”

Applause for Cox’s central performance comes courtesy of Metro’s Sabrina Barr, who says…

“I was so excited to watch Alaqua Cox back in action after her epic entrance in Hawkeye… and after seeing the first two episodes, I can’t wait for more.”

While many loved the performances and the action, there has been some criticism leveled at the pacing and some of the creative decisions in Echo. Though it is agreed that the series should please fans of The Man Without Fear.

“Personally I didn’t enjoy all parts, the show is definitely brutal, dark, has calm moments with a strong focus on Maya. Also Daredevil fans will no doubt like what they did in the show.”

Comparisons to Daredevil continue with The Digital Fix’s Tom Percival, who also took issue with some of what Echo has to offer.

“Saw the first two episodes of #echo tonight and have a lot of thoughts. I think fans of Netflix’s Daredevil are going to love it. It’s like Marvel remembered it can be violent and dark. Alaqua Cox is amazing! Although I don’t love all the creative decisions.”

RELATED: Marvel Studios’ Echo Makes MCU History with Episode Count

Echo Is Due to Land on Disney+ in January 2024

Emily Murray of GamesRadar+ praises the brutal fight scenes, commending them for being so rewatchable. And while there are some issues, the first two episodes should leave audiences excited for more.

“Enjoyed the first two episodes of #ECHO which had an incredible (and violent) fight scene I want to watch again and again. The sound design is [fire]. The brilliant Alaqua Cox continually draws me in, but I found the storytelling and pacing shaky. Excited to see the rest!”

Finally, another critic calls Echo “the gritty tonic” that MCU fans have been waiting for.

“If the world ending stakes of the MCU have you longing for something more grounded #Echo is the gritty tonic. Two episodes seen and it’s a hard hitting action thriller with a great sense of Native American culture.”

Created by Marion Dayre, Echo revisits Maya Lopez, whose ruthless behavior in New York City catches up with her in her hometown. She must face her past, reconnect with her Native American roots and embrace the meaning of family and community if she ever hopes to move forward.

Starring Alaqua Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, Chaske Spencer, Tantoo Cardinal, Graham Greene, Cody Lightning, Charlie Cox, Devery Jacobs, and Zahn McClarnon, Echo is scheduled to be released on Disney+ and Hulu on January 10, 2024. Check out the first reactions to Echo below: