Although it feels like “Black Panther” will play a vital part in the big picture in the Marvel Cinematic Extended Universe, Ryan Coogler’s contribution to the highly profitable franchise can definitely stand on its own.
The semi-origin story of King T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman), who has just risen to the throne after his father, the late King T’Chaka, was killed in “Captain America: Civil War.” Despite his willingness to accept the responsibility of leading Wakanda, the mythical country at the heart of Africa, there’s still some reluctance.
His resolve as put to the test when his claim to the throne was challenged.
Will he be able to defend his rightful claim and protect Wakanda from exposure and eventual destruction?
The Black Panther is faced with the most difficult dilemma brought upon by arms dealer Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis) who wants to exploit vibranium–Wakanda’s best kept secret; a substance that gives its owner incredible superhuman power and was the key to Wakanda’s technological superiority.
Then there’s Erik Killmonger ( Michael B. Jordan), a mortal who has eyes on the throne and a deep-seated hatred for the royal heir.
“Black Panther” doesn’t drag. In fact, despite not having a lot of the usual action sequences where the hero is portrayed as someone who constantly saves the day, the material is meaty enough to keep viewers engaged even during moments of exposition.
Interestingly, Black Panther wasn’t portrayed as the conventional superhero. The script (Coogler and Joe Robert Cole) focused on the T’Challa as a human and not as the man inside the vibranium suit.
It was a nice to see this hero, deemed as the protector of his country, portrayed as a person. That gave his character depth, thereby making him relatable.
It’s a stark contrast to Captain America who’s painted as a righteous person; things are simply black and white. Unlike the super soldier, Black Panther has shown complexities in his personality; he’s still in the grey areas.
This is what makes seeing his journey throughout the film fun to watch.
The plot is character-driven, which is nice. And viewers are treated to some really interesting characters from Shuri (Letitia Wright), the smart and innovative princess to the regal queen mother (Angela Bassett). Of course, there’s Nakia (Lupita N’yongo), Black Panther’s courageous love interest and Okoye (Danai Gurira), the fiercely loyal female warrior, who reminded me of a young Viola Davis.
Not only was Coogler able to weave a beautiful tapestry through his characters, he was also able to, through the help of Ruth Carter (costume design), Joel Harlow (special effects make up design), and Hannah Beachler (production design), bring to life the amazing world of Wakanda. The majestic sets, especially Warrior Falls, all helped set the mood for the film.
It’s impressive how the filmmakers were able to marry the exotic, ancient and mythical elements of Wakanda to the highly advanced technologically superior society it has evolved to. Those hovering space ships that had tribal mask designs underneath were genius.
“Black Panther” wasn’t very generous with action sequences but it was rich with the kind of action that moves the soul. The heart of the film is its story, its characters that will definitely be far from being forgotten in the near future.
I can’t wait to see some of them return in “Avengers: Infinity Wars.”
“Black Panther” opens in cinemas today, February 14 2018.
Photo credits: Marvel Studios
