Written by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Art by Brian Stelfreeze; Laura Martin; VC’s Joe Sabino; Manny Mederos; & Rian Hughes
Cover Art by Brian Stelfreeze
SUMMARY:
Released by Marvel Comics for July 2016, this standard-length series opener is entitled “A Nation Under Our Feet, Part 1.” Having resumed his throne, King T’Challa witnesses his beloved Wakanda besieged by rising internal strife. T’Challa’s step-mother reluctantly approves the death sentence for Aneka: the ex-captain of the Dora Milaje. T’Challa vows to kill the mysterious sorceress fomenting hatred within Wakanda.
During explosive chaos at the prison, Aneka escapes with her lover Ayo’s help. Donning the Midnight Angel armor prototypes, Aneka & Ayo initiate their own renegade game plan amidst the insurgency. Believed dead, Shuri’s potential resurrection is hinted.
Note: There’s an array of variant covers. These artists include: Stelfreeze; Olivier Coipel; Felipe Smith (image included at the back of this issue); Alex Ross; Skottie Young; Sanford Greene; Ryan Rook; & Disney Interactive.
REVIEW:
Geared for ardent Black Panther fans, Ta-Nehisi Coates’s vision has impressive potential. Rather than an onslaught of mindless action or stupid dialogue, Coates’ intelligent approach depicts Wakanda on the brink of civil war. There’s no mistaking that this story arc exudes the welcome asset of unpredictability. Coates’ novel-like vision is equaled by the art squad’s stunning visuals.
All said, this Black Panther # 1 not only continues the character’s tradition of provocative storytelling, but it further ups this franchise’s game. Suffice to say, Coates’ first try at comic books is top-caliber.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
Reminiscent of DVD/Blu-Ray extras, this section redefines what goodies can be found in a comic book. The first page is a standard synopsis setting up this first issue. Once well into the story, the credits are artistically depicted black-and-white across a two-page spread. In the back, there’s a thoughtful message from Coates re: setting up a future letters-and-answers column. Following it, an interview of Stelfreeze by Marvel.com’s TJ Dietsch discusses his collaboration with Coates, including some sketch work samples for this new series.
To celebrate the character’s 50th anniversary, upcoming Black Panther variant covers are previewed for six different series (one per month between January and June): Ultimates # 3; Power Man and Iron Fist # 1; Hyperion # 1; Black Panther # 1 (by artist Felipe Smith); Punisher # 1; and New Avengers # 12. It’s noted that the July through December covers will be announced at a later time. Finally, there’s a classy creator bio page for Coates; Stelfreeze; Martin; and Sabino.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars
