In the world of superhero flicks, one studio group has stood higher than the others: Marvel studios. In ten years, they have created a universe with countless superheroes, and have been making consistently great films since 2008. But, there is nothing like Black Panther. Now, I'm not saying Black Panther is better than some of the other installments in the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe). What I am saying is that, Black Panther is more than some big-budgeted blockbuster, it is a celebration of culture. Director Ryan Coogler (Fruitvale Station, Creed), with the help of a sensational cast, have delivered an insanely strong superhero flick with more depth and meaning than you could ever imagine. And, it works so well. The film takes place in Wakanda, just after the death of their king in Vienna; as shown in Captain America: Civil War. Upon return from Vienna, T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) is immediately faced with the pressures of taking on the position of king, and the position of the "black panther." While adjusting to his new life, and getting over the loss of his dad, T'Challa faces an internal and external struggle with a man named Eric Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan), a man who believes he deserves the throne of Wakanda. This battle, along with many others, is what makes up Black Panther as a whole. Black Panther is a superhero flick on the outside, but there is so much more depth beneath the surface. The film is filled with metaphors about the world we live in, and the themes of the film easily relate to themes we need today. The action-scenes are wild, and keep the viewer entertained constantly, while seeing amazing visuals and brilliant battle-tactics. The soundtrack is marvelous, and Kendrick Lamar's influence really shines on the music, especially the songs that are featured in the movie itself ("Pray For Me", "Opps", "All The Stars"). The acting is superb, with one of the most star-studded casts in Marvel history (besides Infinity War, of course); but the best part is that, everybody's contributions are necessary. Each character contributes something new to the film, and without one of the characters, the film wouldn't be able to function properly. Especially amazing is Michael B. Jordan, who is absolutely amazing in his role of Killmonger. The villains motives are clear, and Jordan plays the role with such a noticeable intensity. But, perhaps the best, and most important part of Black Panther, is that it is so much more than a film. It is a celebration of cultures. And in 2018, and the world we live in, Black Panther is a much needed film. - Note: There are two important scenes buried within the end credits. I would recommend staying until the very end to see some very important developments in setting up for Avengers: Infinity War.
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