Review: Black Panther #1
The opening story arc is called “Who is the Black Panther” for a reason, and it is for that reason that T’Challa, the Black Panther most people know, does not appear in this issue. In fact, while writer Reginald Hudlin has said he’d be using elements of Christopher J. Priest’s critically-acclaimed, if not overwhelmingly supported, run, it seems that he’s looking to make good on his promise that “by the end of the second arc, the character will never be seen the same way again.”
So far, so good.
While most comic book fans know the Black Panther by name, relatively few know much about him, never mind the fact that “he” is not a single person, but a position of power and honor that is handed down from generation to generation, the leader of his people. As such, complaints about T’Challa not appearing in the issue miss the point. Wakanda is as much a part of the Black Panther’s identity as Uncle Ben is to Spider-Man’s, so it makes sense that Hudlin takes the time to explore its history first, offering a stronger context to present the Panther to a new, and hopefully larger, audience. More than makes sense, I’d say it’s crucial to the success of his intended elevation into the upper echelon of the Marvel Universe where he belongs.
My favorite scene was the racist General sputtering “BULL!” in response to Everett K. Ross’ story of how the Black Panther defeated Captain America during WWII. And how he has to be restrained as Ross adds, “If it makes you feel better, he beat the Fantastic Four…” It reminded me of the internet fanboys getting all up in arms, as if there was some dishonor in Cap being beaten by the Panther. Brought a wry smile to my lips.