While “The Black Panther” was first brought to life to the Cinematic Universe in 2016’s “Captain America: Civil War”, with “42” actor Chadwick Boseman in the role of Marvel’s African American superhero. This new solo movie, takes place just days after “Civil War“, it has a distinct feel and style which separates it from all of the studio’s previous releases.
Co-writer and director Ryan Coogler, of “Fruitvale Station” and “Creed”, has made a very unique Marvel superhero movie. But at its core it’s a family and relationship drama that’s packed with action.
Boseman’s Black Panther, whose real name is T’Challa, retuns home in the African nation of Wakanda. While the outside world thinks Wakanda is a poor country, filled with uneducated farmers. Of course things aren’t always what they seem. T’Challa’s father, the king of Wakanda, was killed in that explosion on American soil in “Civil War”, so now T’Challa inherits the throne.
While current events and secrets from the past both come full circle we are graced with not 1 but 2 villains, including Ulysses (played by Andy Serkis) and Erik (Michael B. Jordan, who has now starred in all 3 of Coogler’s films). The “Black Panther” group also includes some top billed cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Sterling K. Brown, “Get Out” Oscar nominee Daniel Kaluuya and Martin Freeman. Everyone is at the top of their game. There are quite a few female actresses that get a good chunk of screen time as well and they own them.
“Black Panther” showcases a tribute to its unique and mesmerizing African American heritage: from the costumes and sets to the integration of music. Their is quite a significant call for equality not just for the African American community but other groups as well regarding friendship and harmony.
There are a few twists here, the action scenes are well-choreographed and executed. Stan Lee’s cameo is probably the best one since “Civil War”. The 3D format is decent but not eye popping and considering the scope of the film and how the camera moves they probably could have pushed the 3D way more. Never the lest this is by far the best solo film since “Iron Man” and “Doctor Strange” its that good. It does well combination entertainment with public knowledge. While giving us a dominant but imperfect hero, a villain we feel sorry for and strong female characters.
Rated PG-13 for prolonged sequences of action violence, and a brief rude gesture
IMDB 7.9/10
TOMATOMETER 97/77
I GIVE IT A+
