Social Icons

Black Panther (2018)



Black Panther (2018)



7/10
 

Starring
Chadwick Boseman
Michael B. Jordan
Lupita Nyong'o
Danai Gurira


Directed by Ryan Coogler



When I walked into the cinema, the queue to see the life of the people of Wakanda was mind-blowing. At first, I thought maybe it was for another movie, but no—it was Black Panther we all gathered to see, with some people even there for a second time.

As soon as the movie started, I could spot the people who had seen it before, thanks to the light from the screen. They were the ones leaning over, whispering to the poor, unfortunate first-timers about what to expect. I was glad no one like that was sitting next to me.

I walked in alone, ready to be entertained by a movie I already knew I’d enjoy. And I did enjoy it—every surprise felt fresh because I’d avoided spoilers.

Black Panther is the eighteenth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and it explores how five African tribes used vibranium to advance their civilization far beyond the rest of the world.
The plot picks up after the last time we saw T’Chaka alive in Captain America: Civil War (2016). After his murder, we dive into the life of T’Challa as he tries to lead his people and keep Wakanda’s existence a secret.


The movie also delves into the responsibilities of being both king and the Black Panther of Wakanda, as well as how T’Chaka’s decision to cover up a murder led to the rise of Killmonger. The story then explores whether Wakanda should remain hidden or share its technological advancements with the world.

Is there a bad guy in this story?

The movie centers on two conflicting perspectives and a near-civil war in Wakanda. On one side is T’Challa, who wants to uphold tradition and keep Wakanda secret. On the other is Killmonger, who seeks to use Wakanda’s power to liberate oppressed black people worldwide.
Both characters have valid points about the future, and their clash determines Wakanda’s role in shaping it.


The film showcases technological advancements that would make Iron Man jealous. Another standout is the incredible visual effects and cinematography, which pull you into the world of Wakanda.
One of the best aspects of the movie is its portrayal of women. They’re not just background characters or sidekicks—one is the general of the army, and another is the head of Wakanda’s technological advancements, who also happens to be T’Challa’s younger sister.

Black Panther is a movie to appreciate and one worth watching again, it has an overall masterclass of acting performances from the casts. But, for me, it stumbles with a few predictable plot points, especially when it comes to T’Challa’s development as a leader. Some of the supporting characters, like the Dora Milaje, are key to the story, but they don’t get enough screen time.


As it crosses the billion-dollar mark at the box office, I believe Hollywood now understands that there’s a place for movies featuring diverse characters in roles that truly represent them.





0 comments:

Post a Comment

Disclaimer

All images featured on this site are the property of their respective copyright owners. They are used solely for illustrative and commentary purposes under fair use principles. This site is a personal blog, unaffiliated with or endorsed by any copyright holders. If you are the copyright owner of an image featured here and wish to have it removed, please contact me directly, and I will address your request promptly.