Wakanda vibrates with memories of Boseman as new panther emerges to lead MCU
Closing out Phase four and the first part of the so-called “Multiverse Saga” of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever expands to aquatic depths following the death of King T’Challa. Fitting with the recent themes of the MCU, the movie beautifully handles the difficult topics of grief and vengeance, showcasing their motivational power.
Shuri (Letitia Wright, Sing 2) takes the lead this time, carrying on her brother’s legacy. Wright delivers a stunning performance, showcasing strong and realistic emotions as the battle of vengeance or honor drives her actions.
Director Ryan Coogler also explores Wakanda’s history further as secrets are revealed to audience and characters alike. Threats to the security of vibranium forces an entire empire out of hiding from the Wakandans. The U.S, as well as other countries, are growing increasingly desperate to get access to the vibranium because of its immense power. It was previously believed to have only resided in Wakanda, until traces are discovered in the ocean.
After further research it is revealed that not only did a meteorite strike Wakanda, giving them vibranium, but another landed in the water, which makes up the majority of their territory. Here an entire civilization grew, made out of Avatar-looking aquatic people who hold immeasurable strength and siren-like powers. They are led by Namor, or as they call him, K’uk’ulkan, meaning feathered serpent god. While everyone else needs special masks in order to breathe outside of water, he does not. He also sports a pair of mildly disturbing and fluffy Hermes-esque wings on his ankles.
Their underwater nation, Talokan, impresses with strong resources and a massive army, surpassing that of Wakanda, previously thought to be the strongest nation on Earth. Their weaknesses and limitations are still widely unknown, making them a major threat going forward into Phase Five of the MCU and beyond.
The MCU intro sequence, a staple in all of the movies, was used once again to pay tribute. This time, due to the passing of Chadwick Boseman after a battle with colon cancer, the recognizable theme song composed by Michael Giacchino was replaced with a moment of silence that spoke volumes as images of Boseman from all of his movies in the MCU were woven together in the opening sequence.
Ever since Boseman’s death, viewers were left in the dark as to how Coogler (known for his work on the first Black Panther film, the first Creed film, and the upcoming Marvel Disney+ series Ironheart) would tackle the direction of the movie, the future of Wakanda, and if the film would even work without the main character of the first.
Even tasked with a seemingly impossible job, Coogler persevered and delivered a film that had a great balance of emotions with many scenes packing hard, visceral punches but still allowing for lighter scenes, all flowing together well. This was handled beautifully as characters held their own storylines and plot in the movie and honored Boseman at the same time. His impact was clear and felt by viewers.
In the past couple of years, the MCU has made drastic and necessary changes. Opposed to the beginning of the franchise, women are holding a stronger presence, very different from their sparse appearances with poor characterization.
As prevalent in the majority of the MCU’s recent projects, yet another superhero was introduced with 19-year-old supergenius Riri Williams or Ironheart (Dominique Thorne, Judas and the Black Messiah). Further exemplifying the grip Iron Man has on the MCU, both in her suit and name. But she still holds her own through the movie, setting her up well for her aforementioned Disney+ show releasing in 2023.
The soundtrack of the film also stands out, further aiding the stunning scenes being displayed, particularly in the scenes set in Talokan and Mexico, with the inclusion of Spanish songs. The Mexican representation is a great step forward for the franchise and using songs authentic to the community impacts the audience.
On a grander scale, more information was provided about Valentina Allegre de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Seinfeld), a piece of connective tissue for Phase Four of the MCU. She served a similar role as Nick Fury did in Phase One, with cameos in various projects, as he recruited members for the Avengers. She played a larger part in this movie. As the head of the CIA, her goal is for the U.S. to have control over Wakanda’s vibranium. Doing whatever she must to achieve that, going so far as to spy on Everett Ross (Martin Freeman, Sherlock) because of his connection with the Wakandans.
Looking ahead to the future of Marvel projects, this particular film doesn’t offer much besides the vague message at the end confirming that Black Panther will return. In an effort to preserve the goal and legitimacy, there was no post-credit scene setting up new characters or plot points. But there was still a mid-credit scene, serving as a hard-hitting epilogue to the movie, awarding closure to T’Challa’s story.
All in all, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever perfectly served its intents and purposes in upholding Boseman’s legacy, offering both emotion and levity in a successful way. The prospects of Wakanda and Black Panther look good as Shuri takes up the mantle, but with ever-broadening horizons, only time will tell.
Grade: A+
Spectacular performances, tear-jerking scenes, and a top-tier soundtrack all make Black Panther: Wakanda Forever an amazing movie that fits perfectly as the end of Phase 4
By Addi Isely