K.T Simpson
Finally, a Marvel film with a difference! I think we’re all used to the Marvel equation by now: superhero, villain, a few humorous quips and a love story of sorts. “Black Panther” challenges this format just slightly, and really kicks a few goals.
Let’s start at the beginning: “Black Panther” forms a bit of an origin story of sorts, but also kicks off after the events of “Captain America: Civil War”. To refresh your memory, the death of his father results in T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) being crowned King of Wakanda, and his first order of duty is to prevent a World War once a couple of rogue enemies conspire to bring down the kingdom.
The film doesn’t immediately launch into T’Challa being ruler of the kingdom and doing his duties, it shows a green T’Challa getting sworn in, and quickly learning that being King, your decisions will never please everyone. A beautiful surprise is the culture and traditions of Wakanda. It made me want to visit the Melbourne museum and learn about someone else’s culture. Not even being my sarcastic self, here.
30 minutes into the film, everything kicks up a notch and you really feel like you’re on the right track with “Black Panther”. It delivers humour, a story to get invested in and some incredible acting. And costumes, my god the costumes! Props to the costume designers (pun totally intended).
As with most Marvel films, it’s a long one, clocking in at over 2 hours. Some scenes felt like they dragged a little bit too much, but I am nitpicking there. I did spend a large chunk of time going “who IS that guy?”, which took my brain away. It was the dude from “Get Out”, if you’re wondering. YOU’RE WELCOME.
The biggest stand out in “Black Panther” is Michael B. Jordan. Just gonna say it, favourite villain ever. You actually get to know him, so you have empathy for him, and you know he’s a person like the rest of them. Without giving anything away, you won’t automatically hate him just cause he’s up against the “good guys”. Jordon puts on a hell of a performance too, and was truly the perfect casting choice.
“Black Panther” is a story about revenge, it’s a beautiful story of culture (albeit a fake one, I still fell in love with it), and it’s a story with heart and is quite relevant to this day and age. Plus, it’s got some seriously kick-ass females. Go ladies!
If you love superhero movies: see it. If you love a good action flick: see it. If you love a decent story and some serious heart: see it!
