The Predator vs. Black Panther series got off to a rocky start. I love Predator. I love Black Panther. Benjamin Percy did a good job in Predator vs. Wolverine. However, the series separated the titular combatants in the first two issues, gradually increasing their conflict. In Predator vs. Black Panther #3, the series finally kicks into gear as T’Challa and the Dora Milaje go on the offensive.
The timing couldn’t be worse. Yajuta, who is leading the invasion of Wakanda, has set her claws on the great mountain of vibranium and is trying to claim it for herself. During the battle, T’Challa learns a surprising truth about the Predator, which increases his desire to end the fight. Meanwhile, Shuri fights the Predator for survival and finds an unexpected ally.
I feel conflicted by the revelation of a major truth about T’Challa. On the other hand, this is also a major announcement with potential for a story. On the other hand, why did it take so long for this to be revealed? Considering how Percy bounced back and forth between different eras in Predator vs. Wolverine, especially if it works here. , it’s frankly puzzling that he didn’t apply the same approach. It also gives T’Challa the personal edge he needed, which was missing in the first two issues.
Complaints aside, I love how Percy successfully breaks up the dynamic between T’Challa and Okoye. The duo trust each other and operate as a well-oiled unit. Shuri’s storyline also changes with the introduction of another Marvel hero, providing another fun dynamic. It also reminds us that Shuri is highly intelligent and that’s an advantage anyone who has defeated the Predator has ever had.
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While the story may be a little shaky, the artwork is not. Kris Allen and Sean Damian Hill don’t shy away from drawing blood through the battle between Yajuta and the Wakandans. Whether it’s red or green, it spills a lot. The impact of a blade that pierces the eye, stomach, or chest can also affect internal organs. If you’re writing a Predator story, there’s a good chance that people will be killed in gruesome ways. But there’s also a beautiful two-page spread that takes place in the spirit realm where T’Challa meets his grandfather Azzurri. It’s a treasure trove of images that allow Allen and Hill to tap into Black Panther’s long, long legacy.
The secret weapon in Predator vs. Black Panther #3 is Eric Arciniega. His color work brings the battle to life, with lush forests and purplish skies providing a wonderful contrast to the bloody battles taking place in Wakanda. The conversation between T’Challa and Azzurri is colored in royal purple, making the song even more memorable.
Predator vs. Black Panther #3 finally delivers on that promise, introducing personal stakes and hurtling towards the final showdown between Wakanda and Yajuta. Time will tell if Percy, Hill and Allen will be able to land the ball successfully.
“Predator vs. Black Panther” #3 finally begins to live up to its promise
Predator vs. Black Panther #3
Predator vs. Black Panther #3 finally delivers on that promise, introducing personal stakes and hurtling towards the final showdown between Wakanda and Yajuta. Time will tell if Percy, Hill and Allen will be able to land the ball successfully.
Percy finally begins the story in earnest.
Hill and Allen depict bloody battles and sequences that touch on Black Panther’s legacy.
A gorgeous color work that contrasts the beauty of Wakanda with the harsh battles.
There’s a big revelation that should have happened early on in the series, but it feels like a missed opportunity.
This series feels a little short at 4 issues.
