Blank Panther: the superhero movie Hollywood needed

“Black Panther” is filling movie theaters around the country and around the world, as Marvel fans and moviegoers alike are anxious to see the blockbuster hit. The film is unlike any other superhero or Marvel movie yet as it raises questions about politics and social issues. It has generated praise for having a cast full of black actors and actresses, and representing (against the norm), a powerful African country with technology advanced well ahead the rest of the world.

Ryan Coogler’s star studded movie hit the country with a storm as fans of all ages rushed to see the film in theaters and experience the hidden story behind the mysterious King T’Challa, AKA Black Panther, who first made his debut in the third Captain America film, “Captain America: Civil War.”

T’Challa, played by Chadwick Boseman, (who also plays Jackie Robinson in “42” and James Brown in “Get On Up”), plays the role of a young king who is forced to take the throne after the death of his father. When his formidable enemy Erik Killmonger, played by “The Creed” star Michael B. Jordan, arrives, T’Challa struggles to protect the fate of the undiscovered Wakanda and the world.

With great ratings overall, the “Black Panther” stand alone has raked in more than triple its budget within three weeks. The film’s subtle fight scenes and complex characters made for a great comic book adaptation.

“I think it was a great film with an extraordinary plot. I believe this film launched Marvel- as well as the film industry- towards a new path,” said senior and Marvel fan Kyle Casucci.

The film was able to balance comedy and storytelling. The simple but interesting plot keeps the audience entertained along with witty remarks and fulfilling fight scenes. The unique characters were relatable and kept the audience engaged. The only downside of the film was the early death of a character, who was very strong, unique, and someone who we should have seen more of, as well as the transformation of T’Challa, which audiences missed.

It is hard not to appreciate the incorporation and well thought out African costumes, settings, culture and traditions that were evident from the first few scenes. The African accents and “Wakandan” language provided a sense of reality and possibility of Wakanda being real. The film itself provides a fun atmosphere as characters use technology that is well advanced and makes the imagination of such a civilization seem as if it could be real.

For anyone who hasn’t seen the film, it is a must see.