Netflix/Marvel’s ‘Iron Fist’ epic fail, say viewers, critics

NEW YORK >> If your web connection seems sluggish while you’re watching “Iron Fist,” don’t blame your internet provider. The problem is the listless pace of this new Netflix series.

But such languor isn’t the only failing of this latest offering from the Marvel factory, judging from critical pans and fan unrest since the 13-episode season was unveiled last week.

Any Marvel project (and this is Netflix’s fourth, following “Daredevil,” “Jessica Jones” and “Luke Cage”) is breathlessly awaited by fans. “Iron Fist” was no different. But even before anybody saw it, it was already drawing accusations of “whitewashing.”

The series centers on Danny Rand, the scion of a corporate titan who returns to New York 15 years after he and his parents died in a plane crash over the Himalayas.

Well, actually, Danny didn’t die. He was rescued by a mysterious order of monks. And in this intervening period, he trained in martial arts and gained the mystical power of the Iron Fist. Now he returns to New York to reclaim the corporate empire that was hijacked by brother-andsister baddies (and his childhood friends) Ward and Joy Meachum. He is also, of course, on a quest to “get answers.”

“Iron Fist” stars Finn Jones, who is best known for playing Loras Tyrell on “Game of Thrones.” But casting him as Danny was a missed opportunity, according to disgruntled fans who argue that an AsianAmerican actor should have been chosen.