Writer: Will Corona Pilgrim / Artist: Annapaola Martello / Marvel Comics

Wondering what Wakanda and T’Chala were up to in the Marvel Cinematic Universe? Black Panther Prelude #1 answers that. We learn about what was happening in the most advanced country in the world, Wakanda, as the MCU began to unfold. There’re spoilers ahead so consider yourself warned.

Ten Years ago…

Democratic Republic of Congo: War and violence are spreading across the land, moving closer and closer to the border of Wakanda. The Congolese rebels are out here wildn’, takin out UN peacekeepers trying and quell the situation. The leader of the time has a decision to make as the forces draw closer. They stand their ground as the men barrel down on them with guns drawn, bullets flying. The rebels begin to slaughter errybody until a mysterious black figure incapacitates each and every one of them, leaving the people in peace.

“Bloodshed knows no borders. The cycle of violence never ends.”

T’Challa returns to Wakanda and his father King requests his presence off the rip. They brush over the fact that Tony Stark just revealed himself to be Iron Man and get down to official business. A group of people, including 2 Wakandans, have bee kidnapped in Brazil. Big homie is ready to shoot the fair one with whoever fucks with his people so he gears up to go handle some African binnis in South America. Before he can take off, he’s stopped by a warrior reppin’ The Dora Milaje! The best part of this issue was this brief but wonderful exchange.

T’Challa: New suit, who dis? What set you reppin?
Warrior Woman: Okoye, fam. Reppin The Dora Milaje, bbrrraaattttt! Put some respek on my name.
T’Challa: See that Wakandan technology laced ship you’re blockin right there b? That’s all me.
Okoye: OG T’Chaka said I should accompany you.
T’Challa: The only company I need is these hands.
Okoye: The King thinks I can learn from you.
T’Challa: Lies. You’re here to spy on me amd report back.
Okoye: You dam right. We out.

Right before they touch down, we find out the Narobian that T’Challa was debriefed about is packin’ heat that would make the Collector jealous. These ain’t no silver bullets made for a werewolf. Black Panther and Okoye reach Paraguay, where the hostages are being held and storm the facility. On the way in, they body the guards like it’s child’s play, but things go awry once they reach the hostage room and our hero faces an unexpected defensive attack.

Not gonna lie, I’d consider this prelude issue for Black Panther lacking. I don’t know if the writing by Coates has spoiled me rotten, but I ain’t ever compromising on a Black Panther title. Nope. Better come correct or get up out the kitchen! Maaaan, I ain’t even bangin’ with the artwork, and I love damn near everything with lines and some color. Here’s hoping that issue 2 come harder with that Fire Nation flame bending vibranium crack to get new readers excited for the movie.

4 Vibranium Bullets out of 10

Reading Black Panther? Find BNP’s other reviews of the series here.

Are you following Black Nerd Problems on TwitterFacebookTumblr or Google+?

Tags:

  • Ja-Quan is a NYC teacher and artist holding a B.A. in Sociology and History from SUNY New Paltz. On his journey to become Hokage, the Lord of The Speed Force and Protector of the Recaps can be found North of The Wall, chopping it up on Twitter @OGquankinobi

  • Show Comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

comment *

  • name *

  • email *

  • website *