REVIEW: Black Panther Is More Than Just A Superhero Film, It’s A Game Changer

The person behind the mask is more than the Superhero in Marvel Studios’ latest venture, Black Panther. Directed by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther is the story of T’Challa’s (Chadwick Boseman) return to his country, Wakanda and the assumption of his role as king. As T’Challa struggles with the idea of what kind of king he wants to be, an outsider arrives to overtake the throne, subsequently putting Wakanda’s true identity at risk.

Adhering to tradition and doing what is “right” create major conflict throughout the film. The characters grapple with wanting Wakanda to remain an isolated and protected country, bursting with technology the world has never seen, or having Wakanda share its resources and knowledge with the world. Coogler does a wonderful job of incorporating this theme throughout with the use of animation to start and dream sequences sprinkled throughout. A brief, but monumental scene, taking place in Oakland, CA also ties in nicely. Coogler is not afraid to intertwine the deep history of Wakanda with the fantastical elements Marvel is known for. The film does well to incorporate the clothing and language of Wakanda mixed with the fantastical metal vibranium, which powers the country’s advanced technology.

Chadwick Boseman’s charismatic performance of T’Challa as he struggles to find a balance between keeping Wakanda safe and helping those in need is a beauty to behold. Michael B. Jordan, as Killmonger, is not given much time to flesh out the character and share what makes him tick but he does well with what he has.

The women T’Challa surrounds himself with are truly the best part of the film. Lupita Nyong’o is nothing but fierce and inspiring as Nakia, a war dog or an undercover spy for Wakanda. Danai Gurira as Okoye the general of the Dora Milaje, Wakanda’s special forces, is a force to be reckoned with and has some of the best action sequences seen in any Marvel film. Letitia Wright as T’Challa’s sister and tech guru Shuri is delightful and adds some needed comedic relief to the film.

Black Panther takes Marvel in a direction that is both exciting and refreshing. It focuses less on the action packed superhero moments and more on the emotional journey a young man must take when confronted with a challenging crossroad in life. It’s a different, but good direction for the franchise many believed to be losing steam after 10 years. Let’s just hope Marvel can keep it up for another 10 years.

Grade: B+