Black Panther finally made its debut in theaters and I was lucky enough to snag my tickets to see it on preview night. So last night I got my life and went to see the movie so many of us have been anticipating for months! Since the movie JUST came out, this post will be spoiler-free and I hope it encourages you to get out this weekend and go support Ryan Coogler’s latest masterpiece. If you don’t read any further just take in this two-word review: IT’S GOOD!
Details matter.
As I watched the film, I found myself amazed at so many small details. Not only was this movie impeccably cast but you can tell that so much research went into getting familiar with African culture and customs. The beautiful hairstyles. The wardrobe. The technology. Just everything! Wakanda isn’t a real place but I so want it to be and you will too. While you’re watching the film, pay close attention because it’s those intricate details that make this film so good.
A man’s world would be nothing without a woman.
Let’s be clear, there were no damsels in distress in this superhero movie! No woman in Black Panther needed saving. In fact, they pretty much did the saving. In the film, there’s an all-female group of warriors who can go toe-to-toe with any villain you’ve ever seen. And without Lupita Nyong’o’s character, the movie would’ve been way shorter. Trust. Her storyline with Chadwick Boseman will confirm that a strong woman will make a man rethink everything he’s ever known.
One of my favorite performances in the film comes from Letitia Wright who plays Wakanda’s princess, Shuri. She showcases how cool technology can be and I’m sure she’ll inspire youth to pay attention in their math and science classes. Without her, the Black Panther wouldn’t be as dope as he is. To see such power depicted through women who look like me is indescribable and I can only imagine how little girls will feel when they see this.
Growth can’t come without unity.
The film touches on how some groups of people are doing good, living lavishly while seemingly ignoring those in need. It forces you to think about the cultural differences between Africans and African Americans. It’ll make you imagine living in a world with less division and more unity. Like what if we really were our brothers’ keepers and not their competition? But what if helping others can cause you to suffer? So many questions to consider and since I said I wouldn’t include any spoilers, I guess I’ll stop here. But after you’ve seen the movie, do come back and tell me your thoughts… Can a group of people truly advance without unifying? Or will any success that people attain be bittersweet because of the state of others?
Go to the gym.
OK so this isn’t a real thoughtful takeaway or lesson learned, but I just had to state the obvious. If your new year’s resolution wasn’t to get in shape, it will be after you’ve seen the Black Panther crew mob in any room with their arms out. Everyone on the cast served BAWDY and had me not even wanting to touch my candy or finish my popcorn. No joke. So yeah, be on the lookout for my new workout plan because my Lupita arms are coming real soon.
Based off presale ticket sales, Black Panther can potentially have the biggest debut in Marvel history and it so deserves to. Whatever happens, the numbers will show that representation matters. So make it a date this weekend and go see what all the hype is about.
Are you planning to see Black Panther this weekend? If so, what are you gonna wear?