“The revolution will not be televised. The revolution will be LIVE!” And, that’s exactly what I thought about last night’s “performance” of “Black Panther” – like live action playing out in front of me, all around me. I’m far from a movie critic or movie buff, for that matter, but I felt compelled to share my thoughts on the recently-released “Black Panther” movie, starring all-star cast Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, Lupita Nyong’o, Daniel Kaluuya, Danai Gurira, John Kani and a list of others.
But first, the backdrop… The history of African Americans on stage and on screen has traditionally feminized men, pictured women in roles of servitude, and children as at-risk, fatherless or underprivileged. This on-screen imagery has been etched into the minds of Americans for generations, in turn, shaping public opinion. But this $200M masterpiece breaks the long-standing, undesirable stereotypes and introduces a new age of strong black men and women, many of whom are educated, in leadership roles, and making a positive difference for the people around them. Also, it was no coincidence that 31-year-old director and screenwriter Ryan Coogler released the film during Black History Month, possibly to signify pride and progress.
T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman), the Wakonian king and Black Panther, walked erect and ruled with confidence, blessed by the Queen Mother Ramonda (Angela Bassett), who embodied poise, style, beauty and grace. The king’s love interest, Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) was delicate but strong, and brave enough to fight against social ills on behalf of those who lacked the strength or resources to fight for themselves. It was her passion, her purpose and life’s mission – something she was willing to die for. There was no commander general more courageous than Okoye, or a technological mind more advanced than that of Shuri (Letitia Wright), the king’s sister.
For two hours and 15 minutes, viewers are kept guessing as the plot thickens and explores complex themes such as the haves & the have nots, the challenges of the black family, and the possibilities of brotherhood between the races. A few examples are the conflicts with the king’s first cousin, Eric Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan) and the unlikely friendship that forms with U.S. spy, Everett K. Ross (Martin Freeman).
Although the characters were undeniably strong – sometimes with superhuman strength – they were not presented as perfect. Even the former king, T’Chaka, was questioned for his mistakes. I appreciate that level of honesty.
In essence, I truly “marveled” at Marvel Studios newest film, and so did millions of moviegoers. Consequently, “Black Panther” shattered box office records, totaling more than $404M in its first four days of release! Straight from Wakanda, the revolution was LIVE!
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Story by: Marcey Wright, @MarceyWrite