Black Panther is the newest entry in the Marvel cinematic universe, and it explores the origins of the titular hero. Directed by Ryan Coogler (best known for his work on films like Creed ), the film is being widely hyped for its nearly all-black cast and crew. In many ways, Black Panther shows off the hard work of a diverse group of cast and crew members and highlights the abilities of those often disregarded in favor of white colleagues. The film is also focused on Black Panther’s home country, Wakanda. A beautiful and pure land, Wakanda is a highly advanced African country. Black Panther does a good job exploring the many characters within Wakanda and tells us a deeply personal story of political betrayal interwoven with familial drama. The hype surrounding Black Panther has been absolutely massive, and for good reason. With an excellent cast, a heavy focus on African culture, and an intelligent and thought-provoking story, Black Panther is set to be one of the best Marvel films yet. Does Black Panther execute its ideas to great success, or is this another mediocre superhero origin story? Let’s find out.
In many ways, Black Panther is unlike any other Marvel film yet. Although the film contains a number of fight scenes and action set pieces, the majority of the film is a rather slow burn. A good chunk of screen time is spent on dialogue concerning the power struggle within the Wakanda government, and the ideas at play are more political than your average superhero flick. Those going into Black Panther with the expectations of a non-stop thrill ride will probably be disappointed. For those viewers who appreciate a more dramatic and intellectual story, Black Panther will be incredibly memorable.
The movie takes place after the events of Captain America: Civil War, where we saw Wakanda royalty King T’Chaka (John Kani) murdered at a UN meeting. Upon witnessing his father’s death, Prince T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) realizes that he must wear the proverbial crown and lead Wakanda as their new king. As the story progresses, we’re introduced to the various characters that make up the Wakanda royal family, as well as the five tribes that occupy Wakanda. In this way, Black Panther is more about the cast of characters than the superhero himself. The plot is very political, and tension arrives when an outsider arrives in Wakanda with his eyes on the throne.
I was consistently engaged in Black Panther‘s narrative, despite some pacing issues in the first two acts. The entire cast of characters was interesting and memorable, but I was particularly impressed by a few. Some of my favorites were: the fierce guard Okoye (Danai Gurira), the sinister but relatable Erik (Michael B. Jordan), T’Challa’s wickedly intelligent younger sister Shuri (Letitia Wright), and the blue-clothed tribe leader W’Kabi (Daniel Kaluuya). Our lead T’Challa is played with great emotion by Chadwick Boseman, and his performance solidifies Black Panther as one of the strongest roles in the MCU.
When the action gets going, it can be a mixed bag. The handful of close-quarters fight scenes are choreographed well, but an overuse of camera cuts can make things hard to follow. Other actions scenes like car chases and the chaotic third act are shot appropriately, making the quick cuts used in fights more perplexing. When a large majority of the film is more dialogue than not, I was hoping for more impacting cinematography when the trademark Marvel action got rolling. All told, the action scenes are entertaining to watch but can be a bit hard to follow at times.
Where Black Panther truly succeeds, more so than even the best Marvel films, is in its presentation. The film is beautiful, and the focal country of Wakanda inspires awe constantly. Wakanda is a gorgeous place, full of rich geography juxtaposed with impressive technology. The use of color is highly commendable, with bright and vivid costuming and a solid use of primary colors. The various tribes of Wakanda are all easily identified by their tribe color, which helps the audience recognize characters during hectic scenes. I must commend the incredible talent of production designer Hannah Bleacher and costume designer Ruth E. Carter. Additionally, the score perfectly accompanies the film, with a mixture of a modern soundtrack produced by Kendrick Lamar and an orchestral score that features traditional African instruments.
[su_pullquote]The film celebrates everything about African culture that has been taken away from so many people.[/su_pullquote]Pacing issues and shot choices in action scenes aside, I have to say that I was honestly moved by the implications of Black Panther. The country of Wakanda represents something brutally honest, and it’s as upsetting as it is beautiful. Wakanda, through and through, represents what has been taken away from many people. The majority of people with African ancestors have no idea where they originate, and what their specific culture entails. A byproduct of the disgusting slave trade, entire generations is unable to pinpoint a country or area of their ancestry. Wakanda represents that; an African country unaffected by the effects of European colonization. However, Black Panther doesn’t beat you over the head with social commentary. There’s definitely some in there, as with many Marvel films, but Black Panther doesn’t try to preach to its audience. Instead, the film celebrates everything about African culture that has been taken away from so many people. It’s heartwarming but tragic, and the overall themes of Black Panther are as impacting as they are poignant.
Overall, Black Panther is an intelligent and entertaining entry into the Marvel cinematic universe. The story it tells is mostly self-contained, although Marvel fans will be able to appreciate how it fits into the grander story leading into Avengers: Infinity War. For a superhero film, Black Panther is a bit slower than others, but rightfully so. The film celebrates its characters, world, and culture in a way that is incredibly important, and not just in relation to superhero films. Viewers looking for a film with tons of action and explosions should temper their expectations, but the mass majority of audience members will be undoubtedly charmed. Visually impressive and a pleasure for the ears, Black Panther is wonderful both as a Marvel film and a standalone story.
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Movie Rating: 4 stars.
Movie Rating Guide
1 Star = Unwatchable
2 Stars = Cannot Recommend
3 Stars = Great for the Fans
4 Stars = A Solid Movie
5 Stars = Must Own (DVD/Stream Download)
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