Black Panther
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita N'yong'o, Letitia Wright
Directed by: Ryan Coogler
Rated: PG-13
Black Panther is here! Marvel's latest film has been highly anticipated especially since the character’s introduction in Captain America: Civil War.
In the film, T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) is coming to terms with the death of his father, who was the King of Wakanda (a fictional nation in Africa). Since his father’s death, he must learn how to be a good king. But a nearby threat looms as someone else wants to claim the throne.
Directed by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther presents a beautiful world in Wakanda. It's a nation that is rich in African culture and history. The scenery is beautiful presenting sprawling lush farmland and technically advanced cityscapes. Each citizen has a distinct task to support Wakanda.
Chadwick Boseman plays T’challa, an excellent lead character who is learning how to be a good king and the Black Panther. He wants what’s best for Wakanda, but isn’t entirely sure how to go about ruling. He looks to his father’s past influence, but finds that might not always be the most reliable source. There are some really good points brought about between him and Killmonger throughout the film.
Killmonger is played by Michael B. Jordan. He's the villain of the film, but he has a very strong backstory that gives his character a lot of depth. His story provides the audience with insight on how he became who he is and why he's at odds with T'Challa.
My favorite character of the movie was Shuri, T’challa’s sister. She’s a tech genius who always has her brother’s back. They have a great brother-sister dynamic. It’s awesome to see such a well characterized female character like this. She reminded me a lot of Q in the James Bond movies. Come to think of it, all of the women in Wakanda are really well characterized. Lupita N’yongo plays Nakia, a spy and T’Challa’s love interest, but the film never over exaggerates the romantic aspect of their relationship. She is actually recognized for her spy abilities.
There are several elements of Black Panther that I really enjoyed, but there are some I’m mixed on as well. The plot felt a little too close to The Lion King. Halfway through the movie, I felt like I was watching a superhero version of The Lion King. I love that movie, but I would’ve liked a different plot scenario here. Also, the final action sequence was too chaotic for me. It didn’t totally make sense why certain soldiers were taking specific sides. To build on that point, one of T’Challa’s best friends turns on him in one day without explanation. That builds in the finale to (in my opinion) an unrealistic scenario.
Black Panther is a well made Marvel movie that has some script issues in the third act, but it remains memorable for its impressive characters and the world of Wakanda.
My Rating: 7/10