Black Panther is not only an important moment for film representation, but is a new powerhouse in the marvel cinematic universe that brings the wow factor in a big way.
There was so much hype around this movie and that sometimes worries me because you work yourself up for the movie and then it lets you down.
That is not the case with Black Panther and it not only met my expectations but exceeded them greatly.
Wakanda mesmerizes you from the very first shot of the city and you are immediately drawn into the movie not only because of the stunning action sequences but the story as well.
What I think is most prevalent here is the performances by the whole cast and their ability to tell a story that is absolutely captivating.
I think it’s ability to stand on its own without having to rely on the other Marvel movies is a strength we can see within the movie.
The main characters T’Challa (Black Panther) and Killmonger provide us with an interesting hero and villain dynamic.
While T’Challa may agree with Killmonger on some things he sees that he is going about it in all the wrong ways. It provides interesting motives that creates one of the most likeable villains in Marvel history.
Black Panther himself has to manage and take care of his country Wakanda while tensions grow within his inner circle and threats from the outside take hold.
T’Challa is surrounded by many powerful black women who help create him as a powerful Black panther.
A female general (Danai Gurira) stands by his side; his baby sister (Letitia Wright) provides gadgets. Angela Bassett swans in as the royal mother, while Lupita Nyong’o, as a spy, makes a powerful ally.
All of these women give Black Panther (T’Challa) the power to become not only the man he is but the incredible hero he becomes not only for Wakanda but for the world.
There are so many different sequences that take place in so many different places throughout the film and it doesn’t seem distracting or messy.
Representation in film is improving and because of the blockbuster that Black Panther is and how fantastically executed it is we’re sure to see more and more representation in film.
None of this is shoved in your face and you are provided with a Marvel movie that not only gives you the typical action sequences, but also a complex story and commentary.
The representation and commentary doesn’t seem like they are using the characters and cast as tokens, and really wanting to create change within the movie industry.
It’s emphasis on black liberation and creation makes the film show how in the past they were denied but also a future that is hopeful.
Black Panther is one of the best Marvel movies in my opinion because of the mesmerizing story, captivating visuals, thrilling action sequences, and representation.
I give Black Panther an A+
