If you’ve been on social media at all recently, you’ll likely have seen users raving about the new superhero movie, Black Panther. Since its release in UK cinemas last week, Marvel Studios’ Black Panther has garnered global attention and praise from fans and critics alike. The movie grossed more than $419 million worldwide, and $241.96 million in the United States over its opening weekend, notably the fifth highest-grossing movie of all time during the four-day period. The movie blew predictions of a $170 million gross total out of the water and is the biggest debut from an African American director.
In the top five highest-grossing films of all time, Black Panther stands alongside Star Wars: The Force Awakens and was the second best-grossing movie with a non-summer release, behind Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Black Panther has an average review rating of 8.3 out of 10 and was given a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a site renowned for its critical movie reviews.
The movie is also breaking down barriers with representation and a diverse cast. It’s both the most financially successful film with an African American director.The cast also features minorities and people of colour in the roles often taken by white, male actors- a norm which some have criticized Marvel for perpetuating in the past. Director Ryan Coogler made the visibility of black actors a focal point for the movie, having stated that “[Black Panther] definitely has the potential to make particular markets who feel under-served in terms of the superhero genre feel like they’re being included in something.”
The plot has been similarly praised by audiences. The movie’s protagonist and superhero Black Panther returns to his African homeland of Wakanda to assume the throne as King upon his father’s death. But when a formidable enemy returns, T’Challa must gather his strength as Black Panther to defeat this foe, or risk putting Wakanda and the world at large in danger.
Speaking of movie hype, have you watched the amazing trailer for The Incredibles 2, yet?
