Non-Spoiler Review- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Breathtaking. That’s the first word that comes to mind after watching Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

The untimely death of Chadwick Boseman shocked fans and left the future of Wakanda unknown. Ryan Coogler put his heart and soul into this film, along with his love for his dear friend. You can feel the presence of Boseman throughout the film, like a hand on your shoulder. Every performance is so raw because the actors feel every single moment. He is never forgotten, and it’s one of the most beautiful tributes I have ever witnessed on the big screen.

The storytelling is immaculate. Much like the real world, as a country mourns the loss of its King, others plot ways to strike. A hidden nation poses a new threat, and now the Wakandans must embrace their next chapter and prepare to defend their country. Tenoch Huerta, who plays Namor, created a villain that is both terrifying and likable. His motives may not be right, but his intentions are understandable. Knowing that Namor is an anti-hero of sorts in the Marvel universe, I think Huerta did an outstanding job of bringing this character to life.

Much like the first film, the story is elevated by the use of music. The way the score is used to bring worlds to life and make heartbreaking moments hit is otherworldly. Along with the beautiful notes composed by Ludwig Göransson, the film’s soundtrack takes the movie to new heights. Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” will have you bawling your eyes out.

This film may be considered a sequel, but it’s really an origin story. Gone is the Wakanda we knew because they have to become a new stronger nation after a tragedy. Coogler also put women at the forefront. The MCU has had many female-led movies and TV shows within the last few years, but Wakanda Forever showcases the sheer strength of womanhood. It highlights a woman’s ability to pick herself up when her world has been swept out from under her feet. The strength to unflinchingly stare your enemy down and protect the ones you love. And the perseverance to keep going against all odds.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever overcomes the loss of Chadwick Boseman, but it never forgets his legacy. It is a beautiful tribute that pushes the story in a new direction and passes the torch to a new Wakanda. The storytelling is perfect, the music is gorgeous, the acting is incredible, the scenery is stunning, and you will cry your eyes out for two hours and forty minutes. The fight scenes are done well, but, in my opinion, they go on just a tad too long. There is no end-credit scene, but there is a shocking mid-credit scene. Bring a box of tissues to the theater; you’ll need it.