Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is a sequel the world did not see coming. With the sudden death of Chadwick Boseman, who brought the iconic Black superhero T’Challa to life, a sequel seemed unfit. As fans across the world mourned the Black Panther, an opportunity to create a new legacy came. In the same light, an opportunity to show unity within different cultures makes Black Panther more than just a super hero flick.
A New Legacy of Black Super-shero’s is born
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever takes superhero movies to historical heights like never before. Continuing the story of the magical place of Wakanda, we are reintroduced to Dora Milaje the warrior women of Wakanda, the various African tribes apart of Wakanda culture and the rich ancestral practices. A key element that makes this movie so historic is its focus on providing positive and accurate Black narratives.
In the new film, we take a journey with Shuri played by Letitia Wright as her “shero” origin story unfolds right before our eyes. Taking on the weight of the world while struggling with grief made for a captivating and encouraging moment. In addition to seeing her take her rightful place as the new Black Panther, we see the power behind her mother Queen Ramonda played by Angela Basset. Throughout the movie, she displays hero characteristics while making hard decisions and still in mourning.
Wakanda Forever pays tribute to the Mesoamerican Culture
An interesting element included throughout the film is the detailed history lesson on indigenous people. The villain in this sequel Namor played by actor Tenoch Huerta, is the face of not only evil but of revolution and retribution. As protector and king of Talokan a Mesoamerican-inspired underwater civilization, his wrath stems from a place of justice. Talokan is visually mesmerizing, the city pays tribute to the indigenous groups of the Maya, Aztecs and the Toltec heritage.
Director Ryan Coogler made a bold decision to highlight all aspects of Mesoamerica, which includes modern day Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Throughout the film, we see various Maya and Aztec fashions, such as bright feathered headdresses and colorful elaborate neckpieces. Showcasing the similarities that Black and Brown cultures face while respectfully depicting multiple cultures makes for a historical superhero movie.
Black Panther reminds the world that grief is never easy
Although fighting and conflict are expected in superhero movies, dealing with grief is a big theme we see throughout the film. As the world tries to move past the loss of T’Challa, Shuri and her mother deal with it differently. Queen Ramonda understands and accepts death, making peace with it early on. Shuri; however, encounters a dance with vengeance leading her down a road of personal reflection.
Making the decision to explore the effects that grief, anger and responsibility have if not properly addressed was a bold decision. We also see the outcome of grief from various characters throughout the film. Of course grief is never easy, it is a necessary feeling everyone has to experience.
This Film is for The Culture
Already breaking records with box office opening numbers showing $355 Million after its opening night, the sequel is taking over theaters. International markets are also pouring in, with overseas box office numbers in the millions. With a run time of 2 hours and 41 minutes, the film is packed with equal amounts of action and history.
Paired with captivating performances, beautiful scenery and compelling details, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever takes super hero movies to historical heights. As for a possible third installment, fans will have to stick around for the post credits for a surprise ending.
