Eyes of Wakanda First Look: Marvel's Time-Spanning Spy Thriller Redefines the MCU

Marvel Studios is once again expanding its universe with the upcoming animated series "Eyes of Wakanda"—and it’s unlike anything we’ve seen before. Set to premiere on Disney+ on August 6, 2025, this highly anticipated show promises a rich blend of spy-espionage, history, and Wakandan mythology. Directed and created by Todd Harris, the series dives deep into Wakanda’s secretive past, unraveling a sprawling tale of covert missions and cultural legacy.

But this isn’t just another superhero show. Marvel calls it a “giant spy-espionage story that reverberates through time,” hinting at a narrative with global stakes and historical breadth. If you’re a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), love intelligent storytelling, or want to learn more about Wakanda beyond the Black Panther films, this series is for you.

A Time-Spanning Tale Rooted in Wakandan Legacy

At the heart of Eyes of Wakanda is the Hatut Zeraze, also known as the “Dogs of War”—Wakanda’s elite intelligence and espionage agents. The series follows these covert warriors as they retrieve lost vibranium artifacts scattered across the globe. But it’s not just about the action; it's about uncovering the hidden history of Wakanda and how its influence quietly shaped global events.

Set across different historical periods, the show presents an anthology-style format, allowing each episode to explore a unique mission in a specific era. This setup not only enriches the story but allows for a broader cultural exploration, showcasing how Wakanda's values and global interactions evolved through time.

A Unique Animation Style Inspired by African-American Art

What truly sets Eyes of Wakanda apart from other Marvel animation projects is its visual storytelling. The animation style draws inspiration from iconic African-American artist Ernie Barnes, known for his expressive, hand-painted aesthetics. This bold, artistic direction reflects the cultural heritage central to the series, giving it a unique look that complements its rich narrative.

Expect a show that looks as powerful as it feels—each frame designed to evoke emotion and tell a deeper story.

Star-Studded Voice Cast and Creative Team

The voice cast is just as impressive as the concept. Featuring talents like Winnie Harlow, Cress Williams, Anika Noni Rose, Lynn Whitfield, Steve Toussaint, and more, the series ensures emotional depth and authenticity. The ensemble breathes life into characters spanning centuries and continents.

Behind the scenes, Eyes of Wakanda is executive produced by Ryan Coogler (director of Black Panther), Kevin Feige, Brad Winderbaum, and Louis D'Esposito. Coogler’s involvement guarantees narrative continuity with the Black Panther films and reinforces the authenticity of Wakanda’s portrayal.

How Eyes of Wakanda Connects to the Larger MCU

Unlike other animated side projects, Eyes of Wakanda is part of the Sacred Timeline, meaning it’s canon within the MCU. According to Marvel’s Head of Streaming Brad Winderbaum, the series is a “window into Wakanda’s past that adds layers to what we’ve seen on screen.”

That means fans of Black Panther, Wakanda Forever, or the broader MCU storyline will find new insights and context that deepen their understanding of the franchise. It's not just background noise—it's essential viewing.

Why Eyes of Wakanda Should Be on Your Watchlist

With its spy-thriller roots, stunning animation, historical depth, and deep ties to the MCU, Eyes of Wakanda is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Marvel series to date. It’s a genre-bending, time-traveling, espionage epic that will appeal to both die-hard MCU fans and newcomers curious about Wakanda’s rich cultural lore.

As Marvel continues to diversify its storytelling, this series offers a fresh, compelling narrative that expands our view of one of the MCU’s most beloved worlds. Be sure to mark your calendars for August 6, 2025, and prepare to embark on a thrilling journey through Wakanda's hidden past.

Looking forward to Eyes of Wakanda? Share your thoughts or theories below—and stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the premiere!

Courtesy of Entertainment Weekly