When I first met the Black Panther in Avengers – Civil War, I have to admit I was not a fan. He was fixed on revenge and took the wrong side in the battle. He seemed too shallow to be able to carry a story of his own. I will now eat my words and declare that Black Panther is the best single character movie in the Marvel Universe.
Let me first review the film for its entertainment value. The back story is fascinating as we understand the politics of Wakanda and the complexities of T’Challa’s (Black Panther) family relationships. We also see the strength of Wakanda, its resources and technological advances and learn that it has chosen to be isolationist and protective of what it has. Without revealing any spoilers the story unfolds with a very even mix of action, humour and narrative and one more important aspect missing from many of the Marvel movies, it has real substance. The story is relevant and what I was really impressed with was that the villain of the piece had a believable motivation for his actions.
The cast was very impressive with Chadwick Boseman and Michael B Jordan in the lead roles, Jordan will be a star in his own right very soon. Strong female characters in Danai Gurira, Lupita Nyong’o and Letitia Wright also impress. I was worried that the Martin Freeman character would serve as a token white character but his role was effective and provided opportunities to strengthen the commentary. Andy Serkis, who played the madman Ulysses Klaue, is the same actor who played the Gollum, Caeser the Ape and Snoke. I hope that one day the Academy recognises him for the life he brought to these amazing characters. The movie soundtrack was subtle but its rhythm was felt throughout the length of the movie and I noticed a number of shoulder rolls when leaving the cinema.
I spoke earlier of the added substance to the story that strengthened the plot and its relevance to today. Without preaching it raised the issues of countries that isolate themselves and fail to share its riches with others. At the same time, it recognised that those in a position of power do not have the right to impose their own standards and beliefs on others. The film did not pretend that it had the answers to any of these questions but was able to raise these issues with a subtlety that may encourage some viewers to consider these issues. In relation to race relations, I interpreted the message “Acknowledge the wrongs of the past but live for the present” as a standard that should be adopted here.
I really enjoyed the movie and look forward to Black Panther and his loyal subjects in Avengers – Infinity War
I give it 9 friends out of 10
P.S. When are people going to learn that you never leave a Marvel movie until after all the credits are shown. I saw at least half the audience exit after the movie ended and then another large group leave after the first reveal. Amateurs!!!!