Soon his friend Alicia Johnson, genius CEO of Johnson Industries, presents him with a life-changing offer: a cutting-edge tactical combat suit, complete with weapons, gadgets, and a motorcycle Alicia calls her “black beauty.” Elements of this origin are familiar, of course, but Washington freshens the storytelling with memorable insights. Chris’s discussion with students of the concept of “privilege” is powerful and illuminating, as is Crystal’s outrage that the scant press coverage the missing girls have received invariably links them to street gangs. The tension in the second half isn’t just in whether Chris will win the day—it’s in how far he will go.
Zhengis Tasbolatov’s art is crisp, clear, and compelling, whether characters are engaged in thoughtful colloquies or armed combat. Chris flipping on a rooftop to avoid gunshots is a striking enough image to linger over, but the sense of momentum from one panel to the next makes lingering a challenge—comics fans will be rushing to see what’s next. Washington’s characters may be accomplished, but nothing comes easy for them. Black Defender powerfully centers Black strength and genius, but also hard work, self-knowledge, and taking accountability.
Takeaway: Powerful superhero debut pitting Black Defender against corruption and kidnapping.
Comparable Titles: Devin K. Grayson’s Omni, Saladin Ahmed’s Abbott.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-