Ultimate Black Panther‘s second arc introduced an intriguing question: “Who is the Sorcerer Supreme?” It was a question that was ripe with possibility: in a version of the Marvel Universe that’s missing most of its heroes, not to mention one that’s been more scientifically grounded, the idea of magic factoring into the equation adds a whole new wrinkle. Ultimate Black Panther #9 seizes upon this opportunity, as Killmonger and Storm finally find the Sorcerer Supreme.
What follows is something that plays less like a superhero comic and more like a horror movie, as the Sorcerer Supreme displays a mere fraction of their power – and it’s terrifying. Stefano Caselli slowly builds up the suspense, as the facility Storm and Killmonger break into sees its windows shattered, its guards thrown from terrifying heights, and a literal voice in their heads. When rendered in Caselli’s unique style, it has the intensity of an action movie and the dread of a horror film.
Not helping matters is the fact that David Curiel places most of the action at night, with shadows cast over everything whether it’s inside or outside. Add in some persistent, disturbing laughter rendered in a blood red font courtesy of Cory Petit, and the new question isn’t “Who is the Sorcerer Supreme?” It’s “Is this worth it?”
Marvel Comics
While he isn’t touching upon the subject of magic, Bryan Hill continues to explore the bonds – or rather a lack of bonds – between the Black Panther and his companions. Killmonger is determined to keep his word to T’Challa, while Storm is less than willing to put her own stake in the war between Wakanda and Khonshu. Elsewhere, T’Challa and Shuri are on opposite ends about the nature of vibranium. I’d have liked to see more of T’Challa working with his newfound abilities, but Hill’s exploration of the tenuous bonds between would-be allies spells danger for Wakanda.
Ultimate Black Panther #9 is barreling toward an endgame, and magic is bound to play a huge part in it among other things.
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