Score: A
Directed by Ryan Coogler
Starring Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Martin Freeman, et. al.
Running time:
Rated PG-13
Long Story Short: Black Panther is the first feature film for the previously introduced title character, and it is a true Marvel well beyond the scope of a typical superhero film. The plot focuses on a fictional African nation, inspiring awe in its visual designs and advanced technology while also serving as an interesting reflection point on the real world. The cast, full of new and fascinating faces, bring it fully to life, and the action and humor are as strong as in any superhero adventure. A must-see.
Following the death of his king father, T'Challa (Boseman) returns to his home nation of Wakanda - a country that appears a modest, rural African country from the outside, but is in fact home to the most technologically advanced civilization in the world. After proving his worthiness to the throne, T'Challa takes up the mantle of king of Wakanda, in addition to his identity as the Black Panther, the nation's traditional protector. Soon after returning home, T'Challa learns that a long-time foe of Wakanda, Klaue (Serkis), has stolen an ancient Wakanda artifact that contains the nation's precious metal vibranium, which enables their advanced technology. T'Challa goes out with other Wakandans, including his sister, Shuri (Wright), and former lover, Nakia (Nyong'o), to retrieve the artifact and capture Klaue. However, in doing so T'Challa encounters another Wakandan, one with connections to the nation's royalty and a secret, dark history. The past has returned for a reckoning, and T'Challa faces a grave challenge to the fate of not only Wakanda but the rest of the world.
Black Panther features a large, stellar cast, one that also reflects significantly more diversity than most other films, let alone blockbusters. Although the film is part of the extensive Marvel universe, Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa (aka Black Panther) is one of the few familiar characters here. He does very good work here again, primarily in portraying the calm strength and dignity of his royal and heroic heritage. Although confident and capable, T'Challa is also modest not only in his rise to ruling his nation but also in heralding a brand new, hopeful yet daunting era. I'd love to see continued development of his character, which at times is overshadowed by his brilliant co-stars. One of those co-stars is villain N'Jadaka ("Killmonger"), played by Michael B. Jordan. Thrust into the film suddenly, Jordan establishes him quickly, as strong a man as T'Challa but with swagger directly opposite his rival. N'Jadaka is one of the most menacing supervillains in years because he is ruthlessly effective rather than overtly intimidating. I could write a full review on just the trio of Wakandan women in this film, yet another of the film's highlights. Letitia Wright is my favorite, T'Challa's feisty little sister who is a tech nerd yet also stands toe-to-toe with her brother and all who oppose them. Danai Gurira is a tough, honorable member of an all-female bodyguard unit who kicks ass with the best of them. Oscar-winner Lupita Nyong'o is actually outshone by the others, but still effective as an independent spy (and T'Challa's love interest). Even after all of that, Winston Duke also steals scenes as Wakandan warlord M'Baku, a potentially dull role that he makes fizzy. Finally, Andy Serkis (playing a human, for once) and Martin Freeman play significant supporting (and frequently funny) roles as an arms dealer and CIA agent, respectively.
Black Panther is not only an excellent superhero film, continuing the ever-expanding Marvel universe, but also one with intriguing ideas that have more real-world relevance. The movie has all the hallmarks of its Marvel kin, from rollicking action to plentiful humor to expansion of previously introduced themes and characters. However, the showcase of the film is actually a place - the fictional Wakanda - which orchestrates all other elements of the film and imbues them with fresh energy. Black Panther directly acknowledges the overall, real-world exploitation of Africa, but flips all of that on its head with Wakanda. The nation uses its technological wonders to conceal itself from the rest of the world (rather than boast, like others), and does not subjugate others with its might. There is a rich diversity of cultures within the country, and certainly not all agree with the way Wakanda relates to the rest of the world - a realistic, fascinating place, in other words. Wakanda is also beautifully designed, from the variety of colorful, traditionally-inspired dress to the cityscapes and vibranium mines to the whiz-bang gadgetry and tech, all a feast for the eyes. The main plot is a familiar one, in which an heir to the throne is challenged by an outsider, but on top of this is layered the struggle for Wakanda's role in the world - what does it have the responsibility to do, and not do? Of course, there are also the joys of the superhero adventure, too. Black Panther has his own style of action; aided by a lithe yet tech-y suit, he whirls about and pounces like his namesake. And every character gets to show a sense of humor, particularly T'Challa's sister.
***
Black Panther is a triumph, lifting the Marvel superhero universe to new heights but also standing on its own as an entertaining and thought-provoking movie. For me, the overall concept and involvement of Wakanda itself is its central strength, an interesting and inspiring fantasy, fully realized. Related to that is the film's strength in its diversity, as its impressive roster of new characters are well-developed, allowing their particular perspectives to be naturally compelling and not just for show. It accomplishes all of that, something any drama would be proud of, while also providing tremendous entertainment that appeals to a mass audience. Make sure to see this in the theater (and if you already have, see it again!).
By Source, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=54261761
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