Ta Nehisi Coates’ Black Panther run has long been known for it’s decompressed form of storytelling. Coates’ stories never rush through a narrative arc, but instead invites the reader along for large epics that take their time building towards a conclusion. That approach worked well for the cerebral slow burn that was “A Nation Under Our Feet,” whereas the more action-packed “Avengers Of The New World” had much of it’s impact robbed by the glacial pacing. Black Panther #4 (2018) is an example of Coates’ slow but steady pacing at it’s best, and a sure sign of his continual evolution as a comics writer.
Black Panther #4‘s minimalist plot is bolstered through excellent artistic world-building and a script that cracks with energy. Coates uses Daniel Acuna’s sleek art to the utmost. The dialogue is eloquent and economical, adding to rather than obscuring the book’s visual strength. The script itself unveils a bit more of this Wakanda in space without revealing any clues as to how T’Challa got there. Coates smartly leaves the reader wanting to know more as he reveals his narrative bit by intriguing bit.
The collaboration between Coates and Acuna is also top notch. Acuna is allowed to go full throttle this issue. His expansive setpieces are gorgeous to behold. He nails that Wakandan asthetic that Brian Steelfreeze first created, but makes it his own in a way that’s fresh and organic. He’s able to keep all the bombastic action uncluttered and clear to follow, which is a feat with a story as big as this.
Coates’ previous work on Black Panther never quite allowed for his artists to achieve their full potential. But this volume, and this issue in particular showcases a remarkable coordination between artist and writer that elevates an already grand story.
Rating: 9.0
-Andrew Fontana
