Black Panther (2018)

A solid and more in depth movie than Ant-Man, the first Cap or Homecoming, which is the tier of Marvel origin film I expected Black Panther to fall into. It does belong in that group despite the character previously appearing in Civil War, and alongside Dr Strange is probably the most entertaining out of all of the recent (origin) entries. Given the setting, all black casting and tone, it is certainly unique for the MCU and a bit of seriousness fresh air in prep for Infinity War after the action comedy fantasies and Flash Gordon type additions of Thor: Ragnarok and Guardians of The Galaxy 2.

In terms of that cast, everyone is so beyond charismatic, the clunky story beginnings and cheesiness that seeps throughout is easily forgotten as they chew through the exquisite scenery. Michael B. Jordan brings probably the best Marvel villain in a while - a dangerous character driven by emotional and welcomingly, sympathetic motivations. Chadwick Boseman once again effortlessly channels the African James Bond aka Black Panther. A role he was born for. But it's the Wakanda women that truly leave their mark however; all stunning and all arse kickers. Of the three, young Letitia Wright as Boseman's technological scientist/princess/sister (basically her Q to his Bond) is a highlight who brings a great levity - and still give a great war face when required. With the likes of Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Andy Serkis and Martin Freeman rounding it out, Panther's main strength is it's casting. Serkis, again, proves what a brilliant character actor he is and so much fun here.

Black Panther is a character a lot of comic fans have been waiting for to make the big screen and I really enjoyed his appearance in the third Captain America film, so now with his own origin film, the stage is set and it's been laid out pretty well and in the right way. A good start. It's no surprise the film is dominating the box office in the US as this film being a long awaited inspiration for African American kids is a no brainer and in that sense, it's an important film in the MCU and overall it has been done well and as far as the origin films go, it's definitely one of the best alongside Dr. Strange and the first Iron Man. Also it is quite jarring - but good - to see a new MCU entry (that's not GOTG) where no Avengers appear for once. Not surprising as the rest of the films lately have all been driven towards Infinity War and Panther is on it's own tangent, which helps significantly to let it be the solid stand alone film it is.

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