12 Ways ‘Wakanda Forever’ Got Namor Right
Marvel Studios recently released Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the penultimate Phase 4 instalment. Given this was a sequel to the near-perfect Black Panther, and it was re-written following the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman, it holds up really well. It’s not quite as good as the original, but I really liked this film. Ryan Coogler delivered a satisfying and layered story, rich with complex characters and themes of grief and legacy. While there’s many components to praise, there’s one they got spectacularly right: Namor, played by Tenoch Huerta.
Debuting in 1939, long before most Marvel characters, Namor has spent decades as a complicated and fierce anti-hero. Originating from Atlantis, Namor is their prince and protector, and has been a member of many Marvel teams, such as the Avengers, the Defenders, the Illuminati and the X-Men. To understate Namor’s importance in Marvel lore would be criminal, so it’s not only significant they’ve finally debuted on screen, but they did so in such spectacular fashion. Some comic book purists are unhappy this isn’t a direct translation from the comics*, which is silly. There’s key differences, but a lot of essential Namor boxes are ticked. Their vision is perfectly executed and has received overwhelming praise.
*Side note - No one can criticise Marvel for not directly adapting Namor. Every story and character in the MCU is an adaptation. Writers / directors have creative license to alter backstories, physical appearances, personalities, powers, or all of the above. Nothing on screen is direct from the pages, they have to make adjustments, and Namor is no exception.
Before the next MCU project releases and diverts attention, I want to talk about how great Namor is. There’s lots to discuss, however I’ve narrowed down a list of 12 ways Wakanda Forever got Namor so damn right.
*Potential spoiler warning* - I won’t go into heavy spoilers for the plot, however there may be minor spoilers specific to Namor.
1. Adapted mythology
As I mentioned previously, this isn’t comic book Namor. Instead of Atlantis, he originates from Talokan, an underwater city founded by a Mayan tribe. This change to both Namor’s origin and that of his people works perfectly. It not only changes the aesthetic of Namor’s home, but every corner of their culture (costumes, language, weaponry etc). The history of Talokan felt rich, even more so because elements of real-world history are weaved into the fabric. There’s an understanding of real events and mistreatment, all while respecting the cultural influences.
I disagree with the cynical assumption Marvel changed Atlantis to Talokan solely to differentiate from DC’s Aquaman. This wasn’t simply Atlantis under a different name, it was a completely new mythology, and a creative re-imagining Ryan Coogler was clearly passionate about.
2. Connection to Wakanda
A question inevitably asked when Black Panther faces Namor is “why?” The best stories examine their clashes at two levels: as hero or villain, and as leaders on the world stage. Wakanda Forever dives into both conflicts in an insightful and interesting way. Tying vibranium into Talokan’s history was a smart move. Regardless of current affairs or recent history, there’s a link between Wakanda and Talokan which will always be there. It’s an organic way of fostering their relationship, so any conflict or partnership is meaningful. This wasn’t a one-off conflict for the film, it established an important ongoing relationship, similar to that of the comic books.
3. Representation
I feel very strongly about this topic. Tenoch Huerta is the first Mexican actor to be given a headline slot in the MCU. Considering Marvel’s expansion plans and increasingly diverse character roster, this is a huge step. When Mexican people watch this film, they’ll not only see themselves reflected on screen, but they’ll see a king and a powerful leader. In the same way Shuri and Ramonda aren’t regular characters, they’re royalty. Having these characters on screen isn’t the whole headline, it’s about how they’re used, what stories are told, and who is telling the stories.
The significance of representation goes beyond the film, it’s about breaking industry trends. Tenoch Huerta has spoken about Mexican characters historically being used as villain caricatures, and how Mexican characters often aren’t played by Mexican actors. The MCU’s commitment to representation is focused not on ticking boxes, but telling genuine stories, and Ryan Coogler is a key influence to make sure they get it right.
4. Performance
Tenoch Huerta absolutely sold every facet of this character. The strong leader, the fierce defender of his people, the weight of legacy on his shoulders, but also his inter-personal skills and manipulation. I was fully invested in Namor, which is the result of great writing and a terrific performance. There are fantastic performances across the board in this film, so the fact Namor often stands out as the most commanding presence is hugely impressive. It doesn’t even feel like a performance, it’s very personal. His struggles are real, his passion is real, and the emotion conveyed is real. Tenoch Huerta doesn’t play Namor, he IS Namor.
5. Neither hero nor villain
While it’d be easy to label Namor a villain, I think that’s a massive oversimplification. I agree with Tenoch Huerta’s assertion that Namor isn’t a villain in this film. Much like the comic books, Namor is a survivor and leader, who operates in a moral grey area. His top priority is the continued existence of his people. His allegiance changes depending on what’s best for Atlantis / Talokan, hence context dictates his shift between being an ally or enemy, or avoiding conflict if it doesn’t concern him. This story captures that perfectly, showing the similarities and differences between Namor and the people of Wakanda. It establishes the potential to see Namor stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Avengers, or against them.
6. Namor’s perspective
Much like with Killmonger in Black Panther, this film did a fantastic job of explaining not only what Namor is doing but WHY he’s doing it. It’s such a good way of getting the audience to invest in the character! If we understand their motivations, their experiences, their goals and values, then it enriches the story and makes Namor just as interesting as other characters. It doesn’t matter if you’re a long-time fan or a first-time viewer, Namor is accessible to anybody. They’ve been written so well, literally anyone understands the character by the end of the film. Even if you don’t fully agree with what Namor is doing, you can understand his motivations and sympathise with his cause. Between Wakanda Forever and Black Panther, Ryan Coogler has given us two antagonists who have a point, and are equally as well developed as the protagonist, if not more.
It’s important to note, I like Namor and understand his cause, but I don’t always agree with him. He’s a fascinating character. It’s more complicated than simply being “good” or “bad.” Sam Wilson said it best when confronting Carlie Morgenthau: “I agree with your fight. I just can’t get with the way you’re fighting it.”
7. Costume
I expected no less, because the costume design in Black Panther was stunning, but I was still blown away. Namor’s costume looked fantastic, perfectly balancing the history of Talokan, and his position as a leader. Underwater he has an elegant headdress, and when he’s battle ready, he looks bold. The simple design stays true to the comic books, with added vibranium and Mesoamerican influences. Substituting his iconic trident for a spear worked well, and he carried himself with the grace and presence of a leader. Most importantly, they committed to the green shorts! Even the comic books don’t do that anymore. Namor in contemporary comics often looks like an unsuccessful attempt to join the band KISS (see image below). In this film he proudly charges into battle in shorts, making him a more intimidating opponent. The absence of armour subverts expectations, and his behaviour in combat shows why he doesn’t need it. Whether he’s underwater in full royal attire and headdress, or walking onto land in nout but his shorts, the character feels like 100% premium Namor.
8. Ankle wings
One of Namor’s essential powers is flight, hence the wings on his ankles. It’s perhaps a dated design, but we shouldn’t shy away from it. If creators are still adapting Captain America, a person literally wearing the stars and stripes, then ankle wings can’t be deemed ridiculous. It’s admirable the creators of Wakanda Forever kept the wings and fully committed to them. This is a massive victory, considering the history of superhero films. The early 2000s saw a trend of filmmakers being ashamed of comic accurate costumes. Hence early X-Men films showcased a team resembling patrons of a tame fetish bar. Namor is proof you can adapt dated comic book designs and make them awesome. The wings didn’t look bad in any sense, especially when Namor flies through the air taking down aircraft.
9. Power
Some characters are a slow burner when showing the audience what they can do. Namor is the opposite. All it takes is one sequence to show Namor isn’t here to play games. They didn’t completely unshackle the character and show the true extent of his power, but they gave an understanding of how awesome Namor is. His speed, his strength, his combat skills, his intellect, his movement on land, sea and in the air. He was a genuine challenge, even for the highly skilled Dora Milaje. Namor still has much more to offer, and hopefully we’ll see how powerful he is in future projects.
10. Intelligence / strategy
Namor is powerful, but he isn’t and never has been a blunt instrument. It’s important to show every strength he offers, boasting the power of his mind as well as his physical powers. He schemes, strategises and adapts in order to secure victories, and his use of language is just as important as his raw strength. At any given point in the film, it’s clear Namor has Wakanda exactly where he wants them, especially by the end. He understands his enemy, the art of playing the long game, how to manipulate situations and relationships, and how to keep other characters / nations as tools for his own goals. It’s clear how Namor earned his spot on The Illuminati.
11. The M word
When Namor explains his personal history and the history of Talokan, he explains how his abilities made him different, casually using the word “mutant.” This was genius. Namor’s history / lineage is complicated, however he’s known in Marvel lore as “the first mutant.” Regardless of formal classifications, Namor’s gift of flight is a mutant ability, opening the door for this to be MCU canon. This isn’t the first MCU reference to mutation, however it’s a better example. It was significantly more subtle than punctuating the word “mutant” by playing a riff of the X-Men animated theme like in Ms Marvel. The ambiguity is perfect, and it bought them some time. Was Namor referencing genetic mutation, or was he using “mutant” as a synonym for abnormality? Who knows!
12. No Fantastic Four or X-Men
Namor has ties to many Marvel characters, but he definitely benefited from being introduced in isolation. He wasn’t sharing the spotlight with other big properties or reduced to someone else’s supporting character. If Namor was introduced in relation to the X-Men or the Fantastic Four then we would’ve seen a reductive version of the character. We also don’t need a live action 1960s Namor, who spent too long scheming to kidnap The Invisible Woman (see image below). There’s potential for crossover with the FF or X-Men, but for now Namor has cemented his place as a powerful anti-hero and leader on the world stage, without being overshadowed.
Upon reflection you might be wondering why the film wasn’t called Namor: Talokan Forever, but I promise I’m not overstating my point. These are just 12 points from a longer list, which demonstrates how great Namor was. Plus, considering the wide range of characters who were also brilliant - Shuri, Ramonda, Okoye, Riri Williams etc - Namor steals the show, but everyone brings their A game. We’re all winners when Marvel are making films where we’re spoilt for choice over who our favourite characters are.
I’m cautious of spoilers, however I think this left Namor in a great place. It was a brilliant introduction, and hopefully a flavour of things to come. It’s odd they’ve waited so long to bring Namor to the screen, given his significance in Marvel lore, but it’s better late than never. Hopefully this is the start of a long tenure for Tenoch Huerta as Namor.
Rise Talokan. Imperius Rex.
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