Reflections on the New Black Panther Film: A Cinematic Masterpiece

I must confess, my favorite part of the new Black Panther film was the scene where Killmonger receives the herb and embarks on his spiritual experience. This moment was nothing short of phenomenal! It provided a stark contrast between Killmonger and T'Challa, showcasing the burden each of them carries but in vastly different ways.

The Spiritual Journey of Killmonger and T'Challa

For T'Challa, this scene was a time of comfort and reflection with his father, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. It mirrored his upbringing in a sheltered natural world, far from the chaos of the outside. It was the perfect place for the Wakandan king to commune with his beloved father.

But then Killmonger took the herb. This wasn't a quiet natural scene. It was a picture of his childhood—his last moments with his father, the memories tinged with bitter recollections of tragic abuse. Unlike T'Challa, Killmonger never grew up in a sheltered world. His father never lived long enough to instill his wisdom, leaving Killmonger to navigate the ugliness of the world with only his bitter memories.

What a beautiful contrast between the two characters. One, T'Challa, was raised in luxury, following the noble traditions of his predecessors. He was slowly and carefully taught the ways of the world. The other, Killmonger, was thrust into the ugliest aspects of the world early in life, forced to adapt and survive at all costs. In a sense, the ancestral plane represented what motivated and defined T'Challa and Killmonger. T'Challa could have relived the murder of his father but instead chose to focus on the afterlife he could someday enjoy surrounded by the previous Black Panthers who fulfilled his same purpose. He lives for the next life, not this one.

Best Scene: "I Am Not Dead"

Another favorite scene is the iconic "I am not dead" confrontation. This sequence was exceptionally powerful, showing the raw intensity and determination of Killmonger. It was a moment that truly badassified the film and left an indelible mark on my memory.

Representation of Real-World Issues

What makes the new Black Panther film so special is its representation of real-world race and problems. This is a movie that identifies itself as a superhero flick, appealing to millions, while simultaneously addressing real-world issues.

The predominantly African or African-American cast served as a powerful statement about the capability of these actors to carry a billion-dollar production. It wasn't just about the superheroes; it was about empowering actors and telling stories that were previously underrepresented.

Moreover, the plot is rich with relatable issues. Killmonger's anger is based on a very real and relatable problem. The quest to replicate violence as a solution to problems is an issue that has played out in real-world scenarios. The film acknowledges this and challenges the audience to consider that violence is never the better option. This nuanced approach to storytelling is what sets this movie apart.

The new Black Panther film is not just a superhero movie; it's a powerful commentary on the very real struggles and issues faced by communities around the world. It's a testament to the creators' dedication to using their platform for meaningful impact.