“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” - Movie Review

Story posted November 15, 2022 in CommRadio, Arts & Entertainment by Cassie Baylis

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” made its release last week in theaters, starring Letitia Wright, Dominique Thorne, Danai Gurira and many others.

Some viewers could say it exceeds the first “Black Panther” Marvel movie.

This action movie is a tribute to Chadwick Boseman, who played the Black Panther, also King T’Challa, in the first movie.

The film deals with a struggle to stay strong in times of grief, due to the passing of King T’Challa. His death is commemorated in a beautiful and emotional funeral scene.

Watchers will appreciate the exceptional emphasis on Shuri’s (Letitia Wright) struggle with grief after losing her brother, to demonstrate the hardship of staying strong as a leader.

The movie’s plot follows the people of Wakanda as it faces an intriguing shift in power and fights to protect itself from a new civilization seeking an unwanted allyship.

There is an introduction of the new civilization, along with character Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) who is said to be Ironheart in future films.

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” depicts the rise and fall of Wakanda as it navigates relationships with other countries, keeping watchers on the edge of their seats as to where the country will stand at the end.

The fight scenes stay interesting throughout the movie to build this tension and intrigue. Unexpected turns in the fight to preserve the country of Wakanda are portrayed in the scenes.

Sometimes Marvel movies feel redundant when it comes to the scenes where the protagonists battle the enemy. In the case of this movie, they are instead refreshing and different.

These scenes are more intriguing as a result of the development of the antagonists and their backstory. Wakanda’s motivation to fight them becomes clear to have viewers rooting for them every step of the way.

The movie not only pleasantly presents the skill of Wakanda’s army, but also creates an excellent representation of strong Black women in their fight to protect their country. Viewers will see impeccable instances of this in the fight scenes.

A fight against the enemy would not be complete without the outfit to do so.

Another well-done aspect of the film is the thorough costuming.

Both the suits for fight scenes and the everyday outfit looks for characters like Riri and Shuri are exceptional.

Fans of Marvel movies will be excited by the new suits created in the film. The details and creativity are beyond anything expected.

One outfit especially marks the significant changes occurring in Wakanda and the Marvel universe itself.

These suits hold a lot of power as they have the ability to introduce characters in their comic book form, which the film does in a fantastic way. For example, the development of Riri as Ironheart.

The movie ties together with an emotional and unexpected ending. It’s a needed surprise for watchers, keeping them interested and wanting more.

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” surpasses any assumptions viewers have before watching, as this film leaves no loose ends or unfulfilled questions.

Rating: 5/5

Cassie Baylis is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email ceb6085@psu.edu.