Eyes of Wakanda Review: Marvel’s Visually Stunning Spy Anthology Fumbles in the Middle

Marvel Studios Animation brings a bold, stylish entry to Disney+ with Eyes of Wakanda, a four-part anthology exploring Wakanda’s secret spies—the Hatut Zeraze. The series is a visual triumph, but its storytelling stumbles in parts, creating a striking yet uneven viewing experience.

Developed by Marvel storyboard veteran Todd Harris, Eyes of Wakanda tells self-contained stories across key historical periods, including the Bronze Age, Trojan War, Ming Dynasty, and the First Italo-Ethiopian War. These standalone tales center on Wakanda’s elite War Dogs as they scour the world for stolen Vibranium.

Episodes like “Into the Lion’s Den” and “The Last Panther” stand out, showcasing both compelling character arcs and rich, Afrofuturist themes. The inclusion of Noni, a rejected Dora Milaje turned agent, adds emotional depth and originality. Meanwhile, the middle episodes—“Legends and Lies” and “Lost & Found”—feel formulaic and weighed down by predictable beats and forced messaging.

Despite its flaws, the animation is top-tier. Studio AKA delivers a stunning title sequence with hand-drawn finesse, and Axio Animation brings every setting to life with a fusion of 2D and CG styles. Craig Elliott’s art direction and August Hall’s production design make each frame feel cinematic, rivaling Marvel’s best animated entries like What If…? and X-Men ’97.

The series connects lightly to the broader MCU, making it accessible for new viewers without prior Black Panther knowledge. While the finale nods to franchise continuity, it doesn’t overpower the anthology’s standalone nature.

Though four episodes don’t provide enough space to build consistent tone or momentum, Eyes of Wakanda sets the stage for deeper dives into Wakandan lore. It’s an artistic showcase that leaves audiences wanting more—and hopefully, future seasons will deliver on that potential.

You Must Know:

• What is Eyes of Wakanda about?
  It’s a Marvel animated series focusing on Wakanda’s covert agents, the Hatut Zeraze, as they retrieve lost Vibranium across history.

• Is Eyes of Wakanda part of the MCU?
  Yes, but it’s mostly self-contained. Familiarity with the Black Panther films enhances the experience but isn’t required.

• What are the standout episodes?
  The first and last episodes—“Into the Lion’s Den” and “The Last Panther”—are the most compelling in terms of story and character.

• Why are the visuals being praised?
  The animation blends 2D and CG with vivid color palettes, intricate design, and cultural authenticity across time periods.

• Who created the series?
  Todd Harris, a long-time Marvel storyboard artist, with direction by John Fang and visual contributions from Craig Elliott and August Hall.