How Wakanda’s secret warriors shaped history across four millennia of global conflict
In short: Eyes of Wakanda is not just another Marvel spin-off. This animated anthology follows the Hatut Zaraze, the kingdom's elite spies, as they retrieve vibranium artifacts across history. From Bronze Age Crete to 19th-century Ethiopia, the series blends high-stakes espionage with the moral complexities of a nation hiding in plain sight.
Created by Todd Harris, Eyes of Wakanda serves as the first entry in Phase Six of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Unlike previous animated projects that explored alternate realities, this series is firmly rooted in the franchise's primary Sacred Timeline. The narrative follows the Hatut Zaraze, a group described as Wakanda's version of the CIA, tasked with recovering dangerous technology that has leaked into the outside world. By focusing on these operatives, the show examines the ethical weight of Wakanda’s isolationist policy and the personal cost of absolute loyalty to the crown.
The series spans diverse historical settings, including 1260 BC Minoan Crete, the Trojan War in 1200 BC, 1400 AD China, and 1896 AD Ethiopia. Showrunner Todd Harris, who originally pitched the concept while working on Avengers: Infinity War, sought to weave together the interconnectivity of Marvel lore with the realities of human history. To bring these eras to life, the production team utilized a distinct hand-painted animation style inspired by artists like Ernie Barnes and illustrator Dean Cornwell. This aesthetic choice allowed for exaggerated character proportions and a visual texture that distinguishes the series from typical superhero animation.
The show features a complex cast, including a disgraced former Dora Milaje member named Noni and a tyrannical warlord named Nkati. Critics have praised the series for its ability to balance brutal action with philosophical questions regarding justice and the morality of secrecy. With a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the show has been lauded for its world-building and its success in blending grounded historical drama with the established fantasy of the Black Panther mythos. By exploring the legacy of the Black Panther mantle across generations, the series provides a deeper look at the principles that define Wakanda, rather than focusing solely on the familiar faces of the present day.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Eyes of Wakanda
- Also: Wikidata — Eyes of Wakanda · CC0
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