In Black Panther, the Marvel Cinematic Universe reaches across the globe to the big, broad continent of Africa.
Located in middle Africa, the technological and cultural touchstone of Wakanda hides its immense riches under a cloak of villages and desert landscapes.
The richest country on Earth is led by King T‘Challa (Chadwick Boseman), taking the throne after his father’s death in Captain America: Civil War.
Assisted by spy/ex-girlfriend Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), royal guard Okoye (Danai Gurira) and tech. expert Shuri (Letitia Wright), T’Challa contends with the dastardly deeds of Erik “Killmonger” (Michael B. Jordan) and Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis).
Beyond its social, political and cultural relevance, the MCU’s 18th installment is just so damn entertaining.
Combing his signature style with the MCU’s shiny visual aesthetic, Ryan Coogler (Fruitvale Station, Creed) knocks Black Panther out of the park.
Given directing and co-writing duties, the 31-year-old expertly combines his vision, a James Bond-esque allure, Afro-futurism and an interesting hero’s journey story-line.
The production design is simply jaw-dropping, giving Black Panther a different look and feel to every other MCU installment.
Oscar-nominated cinematographer Rachel Morrison and costume designer Ruth E. Carter bring Black Panther’s eye-popping world from the comic books to life.
T-Challa’s journey is compelling, with the protagonist moving gradually from isolationist leader, to stoic hero to saviour of the oppressed.
More so, the supporting characters make Black Panther stand out from the pack.
Killmonger’s backstory and emotional heft, combined with Jordan’s gripping performance, make him the franchise’s most complex villain to date.
The cast – rounded out by Angela Bassett, Daniel Kaluuya (from Best picture nominee Get Out), Winston Duke, Forest Whitaker, Sterling K. Brown and Martin Freeman – add to the movie’s likable personality.
Engaging, poignant and energetic – Black Panther sets a high bar for other superhero flicks and blockbusters. Avengers: Infinity War can’t come quick enough.
