Marvel’s latest triumph – a Black Panther review

Another year, another profusion of superhero films, and Marvel’s slate for 2018 is certainly off to a strong start with the highly-anticipated eighteenth instalment in the iconic comic book company’s much esteemed cinematic universe, Black Panther. Directed by Ryan Coogler, Wakandan king T’Challa’s first solo outing on the big screen is a consistently compelling, superbly-paced theatrical triumph that’s easily one of the most outstanding entries in the MCU to date.
Opening in the wake of King T’Chaka’s death in Civil War, the narrative revolves around a domestic dispute in Wakanda that arises when T’Challa’s claim to the throne is challenged by an individual who has become consumed by hatred and fury as a result of a tragic incident that occurred during the reign of the title character’s recently deceased father.
The fact that the film focuses on an internal Wakandan issue ensures that the story stays deeply personal for T’Challa and his inner circle as it unfolds, resulting in a fascinating standalone tale that explores a previously uncharted corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a great deal of detail and depth.

At the same time though, despite its story being quite intimate, Black Panther boasts some of the most jaw-droppingly epic set-pieces ever showcased by a comic book movie. From a captivating car chase through the streets of Busan in South Korea to a riveting ritual battle between T’Challa and chief antagonist Killmonger, the first two acts are packed with plenty of pulse-pounding action. However, it all pales in comparison to the astonishingly grand scale of the movie’s magnificent climactic showdown. With everything from aerial dogfights to armies charging at each other to thrilling personal confrontations, the third act is a stunning spectacle the likes of which is rarely seen in a solo superhero film.

Unsurprisingly, the cinematography of the set-pieces, whether CGI or practical, is absolutely astounding too, as is the rendering of the Wakandan city and landscapes, while Ludwig Göransson’s grippingly gorgeous score augments the awesomeness of the action even further. But undoubtedly the best thing about Black Panther is its truly excellent cast and characters.

As far as I’m concerned, there wasn’t a bad word that could be said about Chadwick Boseman’s first appearance as Black Panther in Civil War and to say he’s even better here in his own movie doesn’t even begin to do his performance justice. Coming across as equal parts compassionate, charismatic and courageous, Boseman is completely believable as both an individual worthy of his royal title and a formidable superhero, and T’Challa is extremely easy to invest in as a result.

Michael B. Jordan succeeds in seeming simultaneously intense and sympathetic as the movie’s main villain, Eric “Killmonger” Stevens. Even though his methods and mind-set are undeniably nefarious, Killmonger’s motivations are made clear and understandable, while the nature of his connection to T’Challa gives rise to some extremely intriguing inner turmoil for the hero of the piece.

Killmonger may be the movie’s big bad, but he’s not the only Black Panther antagonist at play in the proceedings. Andy Serkis’s delightfully demented portrayal of South African arms dealer Ulysses Klaue is another highlight of the film and even though I found the resolution of his arc to be under-whelming, I thoroughly enjoyed how genuinely unhinged Serkis managed to make the character seem whenever he was onscreen.

Shifting the discussion to T’Challa’s allies, Danai Gurira is fantastically fierce as royal bodyguard Okoye, impressing enough with her combat skills to seem as if she’d be capable of carrying her own movie, so I look forward to seeing her fighting alongside the Avengers in Infinity War this summer.

Likewise, espionage expert Nakia felt like a force to be reckoned with thanks to the talent of Lupita Nyong’o, but her romantic relationship with T’Challa felt very underdeveloped and entirely inconsequential to the movie’s main narrative.

Then there’s Martin Freeman’s CIA operative Everett Ross, who plays a significant role in the film’s final act and comes across as extremely likable due to the Sherlock star’s affable demeanour and easy chemistry with both Boseman and the rest of the primary supporting players.

However, my personal favourite character is Wakandan gadget woman/T’Challa’s sister, Shuri. Portrayed to playful perfection by Letitia Wright, the eponymous protagonist’s younger sibling’s enthusiasm for technology and helping her brother out with her incredible lab equipment results in some of the movie’s most fun moments. Shuri’s skills aren’t limited to science and inciting light-heartedness though. When the occasion calls for it, she adeptly proves her prowess as a warrior as well and Wright’s exceptionally charming performance makes Shuri an absolute joy to watch whether she’s providing aid from the sidelines or in the thick of the action.
All in all, between its endearing main cast, its exemplary world-building and its exhilarating action, Black Panther represents another tremendous success for Marvel Studios. Whether you caught the character’s introduction in Civil War, have seen every MCU entry to date or just enjoy movies with meticulously-crafted and affecting character-driven narratives, I recommend taking the time to check this film out. I doubt you’ll be disappointed if you do.

Rating: 9/10.

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