Since Marvel Studios broke out in 1939, the company has become notorious for creating entertaining blockbusters that feed their comics into series of action films, appealing to a variety of ages. Marvel has brought many characters’ stories to life with humor and action woven into each plot. Marvel hasn’t created a movie as significant as “Black Panther.” This is not to say there aren’t other Marvel films that tackle topics of a serious caliber, but in my opinion, the Marvel films shy away from exploring new ideas.

“Black Panther” is about important ideas like colonialism, immigration, exploitation, revenge and more. When Marvel movies do mention broader concepts, the majority of the time they’re overlooked because of the many other details in the film.

However, writers Ryan Coogler, Jack Kirby, and Joe Cole made sure that this film is something worth thinking deeply about. By Marvel finally embracing diversity with a predominantly African-American cast, Marvel has shown they are open to expanding their horizons, which brought a wide-spread audience without changing the superhero and villain dynamic of the film. In my opinion, this film is something that will be talked about years from now, it won’t be written in our social studies books, of course. It’ll become a continuous reference for other films in the future because it’s so different then what anyone has seen before. “Black Panther” represents what African-Americans are capable of and how movies have a vast effect on young minds. Young black kids everywhere will see themselves as heroes capable of building their own narratives. I would have loved to see something like this movie when I was younger.

“Black Panther” is a great example of how to include serious subjects but still be light-hearted. One great example is when the main characters debated if they should use their wealth and resources to help others, or if Wakanda should stick to isolationism. Although this is a heavy topic considering its relation to the real-world, the writer’s of “Black Panther” made sure the audience never felt uncomfortable with the solemnity. For example, dynamic characters like Shuri and M’baku made me laugh everytime they were in a scene. Their snarky comments and quick witted comebacks made great additions for the movie’s balance.

I really enjoyed this movie, not only because Michael B. Jordan (Eric Killmonger) is shirtless majority of the movie, but also because I was able to watch a movie where black women and men are presented in a positive light, unapologetically. Plus, women are in the forefront as generals in the Wakanda army, which was a highlight of the film for me. In addition to the soundtrack, including artists like Grammy winning Kendrick Lamar, rising rap group SOBxRBE, Vince Staples, The Weeknd and Travis Scott.

This film is an all-around 4.5 out of 5 star rating because of its extravagant and accurately, traditional African costumes, and also its perfectly selected music soundtrack. The only thing I would add to the film is more action scenes but still ensure the scenes without action are portrayed as important. Otherwise, I think this film is unforgettably appealing, I’m so happy for its record-shattering sales.

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