King in Black: Black Panther #1
Marvel Comics
Written by Geoffrey Thorne
Art by German Peralta
Colors by Jesus Aburtov
Letters by VC’s Joe Sabino
The Rundown: T’Challa must work with Shuri and General Okoye to save Wakanda from Knull.
Fresh from an unknown battle, T’Challa has returned to Wakanda. One of Knull’s symbiote dragons and its infected have breached the border shield and threatens to destroy the country. General Okoye wants to fight the creatures, while Shuri is insistent upon fleeing. T’Challa, however, has a plan that will require the skills of both women.
The Story: Geoffrey Thorne crafts a powerful story of sacrifice and determination. This is an action-packed issue that also pulls at the heart strings. I was so invested in the story, that at some points I had a physical response, as though I were watching a movie. Although this issue was a self-contained narrative in Wakanda, I find myself wanting to know more about how these events impact the larger Marvel universe.
The Art: German Peralta’s detailed artwork is set-off by beautiful and rich color schemes. Jesus Aburtov masterful use of color palate changes are a clear marker for the story’s change in intensity levels. The blue and purple color scheme used during the action sequences captures the eye. It not only draws the reader into the story, it also elicits an emotional response that is breathtaking.