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Shang-Chi #1
Publisher: Marvel
Writer: Gene Luen Yang
Art: Dike Ruan & Philip Tan
Colors: Sebastian Chang
Letters: Travis Lanham
Cover: Jim Cheung & Laura Martin

It’s been a while since we’ve seen Shang-Chi in any type of solo action. Sure he’s been helping to keep the world safe by running with the Avengers at times and even teaching Spider-Man kung fu. Aside from that he’s just been regulated to brief moments of heroism. Now we get to see the Master of Kung Fu on his own and writer, Gene Luen Yang, wastes no time in setting up a story worthy of your attention if you’re a fan of martial arts and good storytelling. He takes us back pretty far with a brief history lesson that sets up this particular arc. However, it doesn’t rely on heavy exposition just solid world building that gets us acquainted with who Shang-Chi will be facing and the family issues that spark this war within the Five Weapons Society. Yang also delivers some wonderful action and character driven moments when the focus shifts to our hero. One in particular revolves around language and people’s perception of Shang-Chi. I’m pretty sure someone more qualified could write a think piece on it but it hit pretty deep. The supporting characters are also just as good and I hope we see more of Grandma Wang throughout the series.

As far as the visuals are concerned we get the flashbacks from Philip Tann and the present day scenes from Dike Ruan. Sebastian Chang colors both but the styles differ enough that each feels completely separate from the other. The past sequences are pretty action heavy so Tann gives us these great scenes in dynamic panels that put the fight in your face. As Ruan moves the main story along it’s a more grounded look and feel. However, when Brother Sabre and Sister Dagger arrive the panel layouts get crazy and we get a taste of Shang-Chi’s skills. His empty hand technique is one of the best and it’s displayed here.

With Shang-Chi joining the MCU soon it was only a matter of time before he made his return to comics. Granting him a much deserved reintroduction to comic fans. A reintroduction from a creative team that nails the first issue with everything you need to know by not giving you everything you need to know about The Master of Kung Fu. So check it out and see if you want to add this one to your read pile!

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