Snap Review: Black Panther

Have you ever wanted to find out a little bit about a new film to get an indication of whether you’ll like it or not, and ended up reading the entire story? We have. That is why our snap reviews are designed specifically to help you decide if it’s one to watch without giving everything away. 

Star Rating: 4.0 Very Good

T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) Image Source

Black Panther is the eighteenth production to be created by the Marvel Powerhouse. Some of their other popular releases include Iron Man, Thor, The Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy, and so it is of no surprise that this film, released on February 16, has become a huge Box Office success.

The story line bridges the gap between 2016’s ‘Captain America: Civil War’ and the eagerly anticipated ‘Avengers:  Infinity War’ due for release later this year. Powerful female characters and almost an all black cast make Black Panther the most gender and culturally diverse superhero movie yet.

Most of the film is set in a beautiful fictional African nation called Wakanda. For protection Wakanda has been concealed and is invisible to the outside world. Production Designer, Hannah Beachler, has done wonders building this secret technopolis. Using modern sci-fi elements, she incorporates majestic towers and supersonic trains with picturesque scenes of bustling markets, dirt roads and sprawling grasslands.

Market in Wakanda Image Source

The story follows T’Challa, played by Chadwick Boseman who returns home to Wakanda as heir to the throne after his father, King T'Chaka is killed.

Problems arise when Erik Killmonger (Michael B Jordan) teams up with Klaw (Andy Serkis) and plots against him. Jordan previously starred in the rather disappointing Fantastic Four reboot in 2015, but he offers brilliant performances as Erik. Meanwhile, Serkis, who made a small appearance in ‘The Avengers: Age of Ultron’, is convincing as the menacing, pirate-like villain, Klaw. 

Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) and Klaw (Andy Serkis) Image Source

Luckily for T’Challa, he is surrounded by a tribe of bad-ass family and followers. The characters look stunning in their Afro-futuristic gear, which like Wakanda itself, blends ancient with modern and tradition with a high-tech gloss.  

Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and Shuri (Letitia Wright) ready for a fight Image Source

Strength oozes from the leading ladies Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and Okoye (Danai Gurira) and they feature in most of the film’s fighting scenes. Actress, Gurira, has had years of practice offering thrilling battle scenes in her part as Michonne in The Walking Dead series and her casting as Okoye proves to be a prime decision.

Okoye (Danai Gurira) caught in action Image Source

T’Challa’s younger sister, Shuri (Letitia Wright) is the technological whizz who delights audiences with her cheeky, mischievous side. Another of his allies Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) provides light comedy amidst the action. 

Thanks to a thoughtfully presented story, top notch performances and creative talent behind the scenes, Black Panther stands out from other Marvel productions.  

The chance to return to Wakanda in a sequel will be pounced upon.

Promo Poster Image Source

Details

Language: English

Release Date: February 16, 2018 (UK)

Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Superhero

Length: 134 minutes

Country: United States

Director: Ryan Coogler

Producers: Kevin Feige, David J Grant  

Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Michael B 

Jordan, Andy Serkis, Letitia Wright, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya