The
Marvel cinematic universe just got more interesting with Black Panther, a thoroughly entertaining, well written (and
directed by Ryan Coogler) adventure and origin story featuring strong performances
by Chadwick Boseman and a very impressive, female cast.
Following
the death of his father, T’Challa (Boseman) must assume the rite of passage as
the new king and Black Panther of Wakanda,
a hidden kingdom in Africa that is technologically advanced with the rare,
indestructible metal, Vibranium. He
is supported by former girlfriend and agent Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), lethal top
general Okoye (Danai Gurira), whiz kid sister Shuri (Letitia Wright), and his
mother Ramonda (Angela Bassett). But
past events haunt the family, and secrets are revealed as a threat, Erik
Killmonger (Michael B. Jordon), challenges the throne and threatens Wakanda and
the world. As good meets evil, a country
is torn apart, and loyalties are tested.
This is the first
Marvel film to have a self-contained storyline without much connective tissue
to the Marvel universe.
Any good story like this should have a
good villain, and Killmonger is a fascinating, complex character with a past. The film has some funny lines which lighten
up a serious storyline (with James Bond overtones) that spans London, Oakland,
and South Korea, and deals with themes of family loyalty, past transgressions, and
the question of moral responsibility within the world. The production is top notch, but the set
designs and costumes are stunning.
Much as Wonder Woman broke ground for its female
director and female heroes last year, Black
Panther is history making with its black director and predominantly black
cast featuring four strong, black female characters that deliver in spectacular
fashion. It’s much more than a really good Marvel film;
it’s a very good film that points to even greater things in the future.
(There are two post credit scenes.)
***1/2
of **** stars (add ½* for the female cast)
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