Wakanda, a hidden African kingdom with advanced technology, is forced to confront its isolationist policies when some of its valuable vibranium is stolen. As the young king (T'Challa/Black Panther) pursues the thief, a past wrong manifests itself and throws the kingdom- and the throne- into tumult. Should the nation used its advance tech to hide, help, or dominate the world?
The latest offering in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Black Panther is widely lauded. And there's a lot of good here- acting, visuals, and effects are top-notch. There's also a strong African motif and commentary regarding race and the horrors subjected on the continent and its people; a refreshing change for the genre, and a topic well worth discussion. That said, I was left somewhat unsatisfied. Some plot progression was rushed or implausible (even for the genre), but the real let-down was resolving the movie's main question: what should Wakanda do? Should they use their advanced society to continue living in isolation, help the world, or avenge past wrongs? The extremes are rejected but they don't sufficiently answer the question- specifically, how reconciliation should occur between the oppressed and oppressors, especially when the tables turn. Perhaps my focus is wrong- maybe the film is intended to focus more on the king as he grapples with past familial injustices. But the larger question is present throughout and warranted more treatment. Overall, though, I recommend this film.
Rating: A-
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