BLACK PANTHER #38
"Return of the Dragon, Part One of Three: Noted Sword"
Recommended (7/10)
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Marvel Comics
Writer: Priest
Pencils: Sal Velluto
Inks: Bob Almond
Colors: Jennifer Schellinger
Letters: Sharpefont
Editor: Mike Marts
Price: $2.50 US/$3.75 CAN |
Confession time... though I've been a comic-book fanatic for more than 20 years, my knowledge of Marvel's Iron Fist can be described as limited at best. Priest, one of my favorite modern super-hero comics writers, tackled the character (and his one-time partner, Luke Cage) long before I got into his work. To my relief, surprise and entertainment, Priest gives the reader everything he needs to know about the character for this story arc.
After breaking into Colleen Wing's apartment and mucking about with her things, Nightshade returns to her labs with some stolen booty that will allow her to resurrect a fellow who goes by the name of Black Dragon... a well deserved moniker. Meanwhile, the Black Panther learns it isn't Mephisto's body that his friend Everett K. Ross is trapped in, but another evil mystical creature, who has recruited an unwilling Iron Fist to do his bidding.
Velluto and Almond continue to impress. The opening fight sequence between Colleen and Nightshade was smooth and energetic. Velluto's realistic figures and faces make it easier to believe in this world of demons, advanced technology and martial arts. I rather enjoyed Schellinger's colors as well.
So Mephisto was never really a part of the current plotlines (at least not yet... one never knows with Priest). The story makes a lot more sense as a result, but Mephisto's presence (or the presence of his appearance) made for some confusing moments. But once one gets over that little bump, one is free to enjoy some hilarious reading. Ross's frustration -- both with his predicament and with the Panther's nonchalant attitude -- is as amusing as ever.
I'm thoroughly impressed with how quickly and effectively Priest draws the reader into what is essentially an epic Iron Fist tale. Now, I was mildly familiar with Nightshade, but I cared little for the character; she just seemed like a typical tart super-villain in a leather bikini. Of course, under Priest's guidance, the character is far more interesting. As always, though, the most appealing qualities of Black Panther remain its intelligence and unpredictability.
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