REVIEW: ‘Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings,’ Issue #1

Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Gene Luen Yang, art by Marcus To, colours by Erick Arciniega and letters by Travis Lanham. Shang-Chi is now in control of the powerful Ten Rings. Even though he keeps them hidden, there are villains desperate to claim the rings for their own.

As the start of a new series, the plot is set up brilliantly. From the first pages, the status quo is clear, with the rings instantly being presented as an ominous threat to those that possess them and those that oppose them. The pacing is methodical, allowing for the main character’s life to be explored first. But Yang does not take long to plunge Chang-Chi into a fight. From there the energy is constantly hectic with an ever-increasing sense of danger. The pace then kicks into top gear. All of the battles are excellent and just when you think the book is reaching a conclusion there is another level and more foes to be vanquished. The twist at the end puts Shang-Chi at a huge disadvantage going forward, with even more threats around the corner.

One of the themes that is key within Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1 is the notion of him holding back. This is present through multiple strands. One is within his relationship, as he tries to act like a normal person around his girlfriend Delilah. Whilst she wants him to truly himself, the master warrior, there is a sense that Shang-Chi wants an escape from being that. Then there is the reluctance to use the Ten Rings. He appears to be afraid of that power, disliking the brutality of them. This is a great theme to thread throughout this series as is paves the way for character growth.

The art is sensational as the martial arts comic returns. The most noticeable part of this comic’s look is how speed and movement are presented by To. It is always clear what is happening even with so much happening at once. Through the use of echoes and motion lines, Shang-Chi’s moves are brilliantly depicted. In just one panel many events can be described, suggesting the incredible speed in which they happen. Shang-Chi literally flings himself at his foes, the impact of that always exciting to see. The location of the first fight is the first for me within a comic, and the use of the environment is incredibly fun. All of the villains are superbly drawn too, with some brand new characters joined by old classics with updated designs.

The colours are fantastic. For that first fight, the shades are quite muted because Shang-Chi is in a casual brown shirt. The lighting is natural, relying on the illusion of sunlight to dictate shading. But when he reveals his primary costume, the red is eye-catching and vibrant. The lettering is great for the majority of the comic, although sometimes the SFX can obstruct the action.

Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1 is an energetic first issue with a lot to love. It is full of action that is excellently captured by To that solidifies Shang as one of the most visually dynamic Marvel heroes when used correctly. The potential for guest stars is high just from those who have already been included, but the hero of the book already has demonstrated the ability to stand up and carry the book with his own strength.

Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1 is available where comics are sold.