We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
The superhero subgenre saw massive growth with the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, this rise in popularity spawned some stale genre entries. Enter “Black Panther” which sets a new standard for superhero films.
Hundreds of years ago, a meteorite containing vibranium landed in Africa. For years, five tribes battled over the rare, and ultra-strong, substance until a warrior ate a heart-shaped herb and became the first Black Panther. After assuming this role, he united most of the tribes, with the exception of the Jabari Tribe, and thus formed the nation of Wakanda. Despite their technological advancements, Wakanda put on a front of being a third world country so as to protect their nation.
Back in present day, shortly after King T’Chaka’s death during the events of “Captain America: Civil War,” T’Chaka’s son T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) prepares to take the throne. Together with Okoye (Danai Gurira), the leader of the Dora Milaje Wakandan special forces, they extract T’Challa’s ex, Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) from a covert operation so that she may witness his ascension to the throne. As per ceremonial tradition, there’s an opportunity to challenge T’Challa’s right to the throne, and Jabari leader M’Baku disputes T’Challa. Nevertheless, T’Challa persists. After Klaue, aided by Erik Stevens (Michael B. Jordan) aka Warmonger, steals a Wakandan relic from a museum in London, T’Challa sets out to capture Klaue and finally serve justice.
“Black Panther” bursts forth as an undeniable masterpiece. Set and costume design oozes a futuristic vibe that’s technologically advanced yet grounded. It’s an aesthetic that’s simultaneously recognizable in its African influence, and modernistic, thus creating an Afrofuturist tone. That’s accomplished in large part by production designer Hannah Beachler. There’s masterful use of CGI, which creates an atmosphere rather than overwhelming scenes and devolving into a Michael Bay style of filmmaking. “Black Panther” boasts some of the best use of CG since “Prometheus,” or “Alien: Covenant.”
Moreover, “Black Panther” contains strong feminist undertones. Repeatedly, T’Challa requires aid from Nakia, Okoye, and his genius of a younger sister Shuri (Letitia Wright). Surpassing Tony Stark in intelligence, Shuri is essentially the Q of “Black Panther.”
Throughout the narrative, there’s a lot of nuance. Warmonger usurps Loki as the top villain of the MCU, and likely comic book villains in general. Because of his backstory, the audience is forced to truly empathize with him. Plus, Wakanda copes with issues such as whether to provide help to other countries and how to handle refugees. As such, “Black Panther” offers a poignant, relevant, socio-political commentary. The most powerful line of the film comes from Warmonger when he faces death honorably, stating “Bury me in the ocean with my ancestors who jumped from ships because they knew death was better than bondage.”
Acting remains top notch with a tour de force performance from Boseman. It’s refreshing that “Black Panther” arrives as an origin story with its primary focus on the titular character, rather than treading into Avengers territory like “Civil War.” Forest Whitaker plays an inspired Zuri, an elder Wakandan statesman. Letitia Wright plays a charming Shuri, stealing every scene she’s in. As Okoye, Danai Gurira ushers in an unrivaled badassery. Martin Freeman reprises his role as CIA agent Everett K. Ross, further developing his character after his introduction in “Civil War.” Following a breakout role in “Get Out,” Daniel Kaluuya puts in a marvelous showing as W’Kabi, a friend and head of Wakandan border security.
A few moments are decidedly cliche, but that’s sort of to be expected in a comic book movie. “Black Panther” features a bit of dry humor that works well, though jokes relying on memes don’t always land. “What are THOSE??” Shuri exclaims pointing at her older brother’s sandals. In relying less on wit and more on viewer familiarity with a specific meme, it’s only funny for those in the loop. Still, it’s pleasant seeing meme culture getting a bit of love.
“Black Panther” replete with its magnificent costume and set design, nuanced characters and plot, as well as thoughtful socio-political commentary takes the comic book throne. Each scene feels as though it’s a work of art, and the story does deviate a bit from where it’s expected to proceed. Easily among the MCU’s best entries, “Black Panther” is one of the greatest comic book film adaptations to date.
This post may contain affiliate links. We are a participant in affiliate programs such as the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. However, all products are thoroughly tested and reviews are honest and unbiased.