Marvel's latest animated series, Eyes of Wakanda, has arrived on Disney+, promising an exciting deep dive into the untold history of the secretive nation. Released as a four-part anthology, the show follows the Hatut Zeraze, or "War Dogs," elite Wakandan spies tasked with retrieving vibranium artifacts throughout history. While the series boasts a stunning visual style and intriguing premise, its limited runtime ultimately leaves viewers wanting more, proving both its greatest strength and most significant weakness.
Created by Todd Harris, the series stands out from previous Marvel animated projects by being firmly entrenched in the MCU's "Sacred Timeline." It serves as both a prequel and a spinoff to the Black Panther films, exploring the origins and missions of Wakanda's covert operatives. The series takes viewers on a globe-trotting adventure across different eras, from the Trojan War to 19th-century Ethiopia, showcasing Wakanda's far-reaching influence and advanced technology throughout history.
One of the most striking aspects of Eyes of Wakanda is its animation. The show adopts a unique, painterly aesthetic that sets it apart from other animated series. The vibrant colors, dynamic action sequences, and hand-drawn feel give each episode a visually distinct and captivating quality. This artistic choice elevates the storytelling, making it a joy to watch, even in its quieter moments.
The series starts strong, with its first episode, "Into the Lion's Den," introducing us to Noni, a disgraced Dora Milaje warrior voiced by Winnie Harlow. Noni's mission to track down a rogue Wakandan leader, Nkati "The Lion," provides a compelling start and a glimpse into the internal conflicts and moral complexities of the Hatut Zeraze. Subsequent episodes introduce new characters and settings, including a Wakandan warrior fighting alongside Achilles in the Trojan War and a meeting with a version of Iron Fist in 15th-century China.
However, the anthology format, combined with the brevity of the series, becomes a double-edged sword. At just four episodes, each running for about 25 minutes, the show feels more like a sampler than a fully realized season. Each episode introduces compelling characters and a fascinating premise, but the limited time prevents a deep emotional connection or a satisfying exploration of the ideas presented. The stories often feel rushed, with contrived payoffs that don't fully earn their emotional weight.
Despite its brevity, Eyes of Wakanda is an engaging and essential watch for fans of the Black Panther franchise. It expands the lore of Wakanda in fascinating ways, providing historical context and deepening our understanding of its secretive and advanced nature. The voice acting is superb across the board, and the action is expertly staged. While it may not fully live up to its immense potential due to its short run, Eyes of Wakanda is a visually stunning and thought-provoking addition to the MCU, reminding us of the rich storytelling possibilities that lie within the world of Wakanda. It leaves us with the feeling that this is a universe ripe for further exploration—and a hope that Marvel Animation will one day give it the longer season it truly deserves.