As a collector of comic books growing up, I was familiar with the character of T'Challa, Prince of Wakanda, aka Black Panther, mostly in his role as a member of the Avengers. (I also picked up the 1st issue of "Black Panther" in Greece).
By 2018, Marvel Cinematic Universe fatigue was beginning to set in. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed "Dr. Strange" (2016) and "Thor: Ragnarok" (2017), and so went into "Black Panther" with high expectations.
I was quickly impressed with the complexity of themes the film was willing to address. Although primarily a superhero movie, "Black Panther" is nuanced and leaves the viewer with much to think over.
The score by Ludwig Goransson is fantastic. (Goransson researched traditional African music, and even went on tour with Senegalese musician Baaba Maal, who contributed an original song for the film.)
"Black Panther" was the first superhero movie to be nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, winning three (for Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, and Best Original Score).
Chadwick Boseman's unexpected passing a couple of years later due to colon cancer was truly saddening. He was a gifted actor, and made such a tremendous impact during the time he had with us.
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