REVIEW: ‘Ultimate Black Panther’ Issue #2

Ultimate Black Panther #2 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Bryan Edward Hill, art by Stefano Caselli, colors by David Curiel and letters by Cory Petit. This is part of the new Ultimate Universe. After the death of T’Challa’s father, a hunt begins for traitors within Wakanda.

The structure of the book splits across Africa. The first half of it focuses on the ramifications of the assassination of T’Chaka. The issue is slow and melancholy, exploring the unease within the nation. However the plot splits with the revelation that a spy is working for Moon Knight. It adds suspicion to the story as any of these new figures could be the culprit. What adds to the danger is T’Challa leaving Wakanda on a solo mission. Without his presence in the city, anything can happen.

From how it is set up, Ultimate Black Panther #2 looked to be setting an example of what the king can do on his own. But there is a surprising ending that subverts that expectation and will leave us waiting longer for that release. This version of the Black Panther mythos has premonitions within it. It’s an exciting form of storytelling as it leaves a point for the plot to reach.

The characters are only just emerging but the writing establishes their relationships and personalities  early. The core of the comic is the marriage of Okoye and T’Challa. Whilst they clearly trust each other, there does not appear to be much intimacy within their bond. Black Panther has many advisors, and he confides in them, but there is little levity or release for the man. Okoye tells him about his people and his politics. Shuri, his sister, is the tactics and tech. And then there is the Vodu-Khan, his spiritual advisers. They help tell his future but not his present. Each of these female figures provides and deprives him in their own areas.

The art does not reveal more, but at least it gives more exposure to the new world. Black Panther is in his costume for longer. It’s a proper suit of armor, bulky and detailed. What is different is his T’Challa’s mouth, visible through the mask. That aspect is reminiscent of Wildcat’s costume from DC but with much more metal. What works with this costume is that it has the correct profile and silhouette from afar, while detailed and specific up close.

The rest of the characters look just as immaculate, with attention paid to all of their uniforms. Each figure has a look that befits their rank and their personality. Caselli blends Wakanda’s technological superiority and the importance of theory spirituality. Every room is spacious and open, and a sense of location is clear. There are only glimpses of action and battles, but they all look terrific.

The colors blend light and dark. The lighting is natural but dynamic at the same time. It carves through the shadows hanging on the edges of the panel. The power of some of the spotlights is so powerful that it makes characters recoil. While Black Panther’s costume has to have muted shades, the rest of the outfits have a vibrant and regal quality. The lettering is clear, precise, and easy to read.

Ultimate Black Panther #2 heralds uncertainty. The status quo faces disruption within the series. Early established rules and relationships start to fray at the edges. And yet other parts of the comic are taking their time. Black Panther doesn’t go far within this second chapter, but multiple facets can be explored simultaneously. This is wartime and a period of mourning, and the balance between Black Panther’s character development and his involvement in the rest of the story is brilliant.

Ultimate Black Panther #2 is available where comics are sold.