REVIEW: ‘Imperial War: Black Panther’ Issue 1

Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Victor LaVelle and Jonathan Hickman, art by Cafu, colors by David Curiel, and letters by Ariana Maher.

This issue is part of the Imperial event. The Black Panther must try to escape a spaceship with a rampaging Hulk on board and return to his empire to attempt to make peace.

Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1 takes a step back in time, aligning with Imperial Issue 2. T’Challa is still on the Sakaaran ship, with both Hulk and Brawn on there with him, alongside a selection of Skrulls. Since this was the last time we saw the King of Wakanda, this scene provides valuable context for what’s happening, rather than having to see Black Panther appear elsewhere. It also says the pace off at a canter instantly, raising the pressure and hostility.

Black Panther and the Wakandans are wanted throughout the universe, believed to be responsible for the deaths of multiple heads of state and other assassinations. So even when he escapes the ship, T’Challa isn’t exactly safe. This great intergalactic chess match continues in Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1. LaVelle and Hickman do an excellent job at keeping Black Panther updated with what’s happened, whilst still moving the plot forward.

At first, Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1 had the air of a superhero comic. It’s energetic and features two figures based on Earth. But then comes the brutality that befits the cosmic universe. Actions have consequences and create a want for revenge and resources for dishonour. 

T’Challa is fantastically written in Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1. There is that stoic, unrivalled regal diplomacy and respect that he has. Black Panther backs himself against anyone, but he also values the position of power of the other characters. Especially out here in space, where everyone is the leader of an ancient and proud empire.

T’Challa is a patient character. He will exact revenge, seek justice for the Wakandan lives lost, and alleviate the general suffering of his family. But he’s happy to wait, because making peace and ending the war is more important.

The narration is interesting because it taps into parts of the Black Panther that the king can’t say out loud. There’s a little bit of humor in there. Not at the level of Spider-Man, but there are times when he’s making plans that you can tell T’Challa is having fun. It’s fascinating to see him viewed by everyone else as a villain and a target.

The art is glorious and enthralling. It’s pretty similar in style to how the Black Panther/Hulk fight looked in Imperial Issue 2, making it a smooth and comfortable transition. In the first few pages of Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1, the sense of danger is terrific. The oncoming Hulk, huge and furious, adds an immediacy to the book and forces T’Challa to keep moving.

The design of Black Panther is fantastic, too. In recent years, more features have been added that give more regal attributes to his costume. There’s a flowing cloak, a vibranium sword on his back, and claw mark symbols on his face. This makes his costume more than just a silhouette. What’s fascinating is how Cafu can show facial features and emotions in a mask that has none. Through the creases in the material, you can see fury, concern, sadness, and other incredibly specific details.

The other characters included in Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1 also look brilliant, capturing their majesty. The panels stay close for most of the issue, sissy from location setting and reveals of huge pieces of technology. This makes the comic more relatable, rather than being an emotionless sci-fi story.

The colors are magnificent. When discussing the details of Black Panther’s mask and its ability to create facial expressions, the primary reason is due to the colors. The lighter shades and diversity in tones can suggest cheekbones and furrowed brows. Depending on the lighting, there is a faint blue to Black Panther, while he still looks like an imposing shadow in black. The lettering has superb clarity, matching the seriousness of the main character.

Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1 proves the Panther is more than comfortable off-world. Black Panther is respected and feared on Earth for his control, his intelligence, and his position. But headed into space, alongside the Kree, Shi’ar, and Skrulls, the Wakandans are just as powerful an empire. They are hated and targeted by a cabal of armies and races, but you’d still give them the edge. It’s the coolness and confidence of Black Panther that make him not just an amazing character to follow, but perhaps the most dangerous player in this entire cosmic war.

Imperial War Black Panther Issue 1 is available now wherever comics are sold.