Over President’s Day weekend, Disney-Marvel’s “Black Panther” smashed the box office, bringing in over $200 million opening weekend and labeling it Fandango’s fourth biggest pre-seller of all time, just on the heels of the last three “Star Wars” movies.
Based on Marvel Comics’ original 60’s character and set in the fictional African country of Wakanda, Ryan Coogler’s film actually isn’t the first black superhero movie. But it is the first to break international attention – and with promise. Circulating hashtags like #BlackPantherSoLit, #WelcometoWakanda and #WakandaCametoSlay reveal that early viewers are backing the hype.
The film is a defining moment for the black community, many of whom have waited an entire lifetime to see a Blockbuster cast and story line devoted to Afrocentrism. It’s also a defining moment for black women as the film embraces female power.
So if you’ve seen “Black Panther,” we want to hear from you: did it deliver? And if you haven’t seen it, beware of spoilers! Call us at 866-893-5722.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjDjIWPwcPU
Guest:
Tim Cogshell, film critic for KPCC, Alt-Film Guide and CineGods.com; he tweets