Phase Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has dealt with grief and how its universe's many characters have dealt with it and the losses that spurred it. As a result, there's no better film to cap off a phase of reconstruction than Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. At its core, the film continues the story of Wakanda and the legacy of the Black Panther, but without its king, as the real world tragically lost Chadwick Boseman in 2020. Now, as those closest to him and the world of Wakanda begin to heal, this brand-new film will close a chapter and introduce new characters from the storied history of the Black Panther.
However, on top of the debut of Namor and Ironheart, there's another introduction set to happen. That's Wakanda's own version of Iron Man, known as the Midnight Angels. While they are new to the MCU, their story has been in the comics for years, and they are some of the most formidable fighters in Wakanda. But who are they exactly, and how will they impact the story of Wakanda Forever?
What Are Marvel Comics' Midnight Angels?
The Midnight Angels first appeared in Doomwar #5 by Jonathan Mayberry and Scot Eaton as an elite Wakandan fighting force and a subgroup of the Dora Milaje. Because of this, their primary purpose is always to protect their ruler, no matter the cost. However, the Midnight Angels are more equipped than their other sisters. They've even gone as an elite strike force to try and assassinate Doctor Doom after he stole Vibranium from their country. And in recent years, they've even garnered their own experimental armor that gave them the means to match Black Panther and fly.
The group gained more popularity recently and even added two names to their roster, Aneka and Ayo. In the comics, the two formed a romantic bond and fought against the monarchy that T'Challa stood for. However, in the MCU, Ayo is one of the higher-ranking Dora Milaje, while Aneka will appear for the first time in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. And while the Midnight Angels have yet to debut, their skills and armor will make them a formidable force for Namor and his armies.
How Will the Midnight Angels Impact Black Panther: Wakanda Forever?
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will see the nation at its weakest. With the loss of T'Chall and unsure what the next steps are, it'll be easy for other forces to take advantage. That is likely why Namor joins the fray and appears on Wakanda's shores. But prior to Wakanda Forever, the Midnight Angels were likely not needed, as their king was more than protected. The subgroup may not have even existed because there wasn't a threat that required them. That said, it's clear that they're needed now and whether their armor is traditional or new to Wakanda, they will likely show the Talocan army that Wakanda won't go down without a fight.
It's unclear if Aneka and Ayo will also share some screen time to mirror their comic relationship. However, if the Midnight Angels are new, that connection could be what's needed for fans to better connect to yet another character getting introduced to them. Regardless, the Midnight Angels are a force to be reckoned with in the comics, and even though Wakanda is weaker than ever, that doesn't mean they won't fight to protect it.
To see the Midnight Angels' debut, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever hits theaters Nov. 11.