Blog #1

Wyatte Copeland
Sep 8, 2018 · 2 min read

In my latest viewing of Marvels Black Panther, I decided to inspect the cultural and societal themes that the characters make reference to throughout the movie. Throughout the film, there is an overtone of racial sensitivity that seems to weave its way into the movie without a very solid filter. For instance, the antagonist of the film, known as Killmonger, makes numerous references to the early actions of many white colonists, such as “stealing what isn’t theirs”. Throughout the film, Killmonger character serves as a megaphone for highlighting the deep rooted African American conflicts that are still faced today. Many would argue, however, that regardless of the actions he takes throughout the film, his message of amending for the atrocities committed in our past could be seen as a testament to the characters determination. Offsetting this charter is the noble character, prince T’Challa. In analyzing his attributes and influence throughout the movie, I found that he represented the median/balance of the movie as a whole. His actions would reflect those of one who can sympathize with the quarrels of modern African Americans, but is not necessarily willing to go to the greater extremes as it pertains to “liberating” them. These individuals aside, this films ability to incorporate a message that extended beyond the box offices was what made it so incredibly successful. The movie’s eventual idolization throughout, not only American, but global society was hinged upon the fact that it was both an incredibly well produced movie, but also the fact that it touched on a concept that for so long has been blissfully ignored.