By: Jordan Ellis
Updated: Feb. 20, 2018
Originally Published: Feb. 20, 2018
To kick things off, I should admit that comic books have never been my forte. I’ve skimmed through a few and caught a handful of Marvel films, but that’s about it. Still, when I heard about Black Panther, I felt an undeniable urge to see it. This film presents a black superhero unlike anything we’ve witnessed before, and the moment I watched the first trailer, I realized just how monumental this movie would be—not only for myself but for countless black children around the globe who adore superheroes. If Black Panther had graced my childhood, who knows, I might have embraced superheroes with more enthusiasm as an adult.
Black Panther is a jubilant tribute to black identity, which is sorely lacking in cinema, especially within the superhero genre. It tells the story of a nation of proud black individuals fiercely committed to safeguarding their homeland. Wakanda may outwardly appear “third world,” but it stands as the most formidable country on Earth, fully aware that if its resources fall into the hands of colonizers, its essence would be lost forever.
In Wakanda, blackness is not only accepted; it is celebrated. Here, you can embrace your identity without fear of violence or oppression.
The timing of this film couldn’t be more relevant. In a world that often tells black individuals they have no right to exist, T’Challa emerges as the superhero every child of color needs. He is not just a king of an extraordinary nation but also one of the most powerful characters in the Marvel universe. This narrative shift is refreshing, especially when mainstream media frequently depicts black men as criminals.
T’Challa embodies a new model of masculinity—one that acknowledges vulnerability while remaining steadfastly secure in his identity. He is compassionate and introspective, grappling with his role in a changing world. While he is undeniably strong, he also feels the weight of his responsibilities.
Though T’Challa is the titular Black Panther, the real stars are the formidable women surrounding him. The Dora Milaje, a group of fierce female warriors, protect their nation with unmatched bravery. General Okoye, in particular, commands attention with her relentless dedication and skill. Each time she graces the screen, audiences are left in awe of her strength.
After watching the film, I was inspired to shave my head, hoping to channel some of Okoye’s fierce energy. For someone like me, witnessing a dark-skinned woman wield such power is transformative. I can only imagine how impactful it would have been for me at ten.
Then there’s Nakia. T’Challa’s ex isn’t just a romantic interest; she is a fierce warrior with a strong commitment to social justice. While she loves her homeland, she believes in its potential for greater things and is determined to convince T’Challa to see her vision. Nakia is a character who stands firm in her beliefs without compromising her integrity.
However, the true standout is Shuri, T’Challa’s younger sister. She is the innovative genius behind Wakanda’s advanced technology. Forget Tony Stark—Shuri is the character who steals the show with her quick wit and brilliance. She is not only the smartest character in the Marvel universe but also a vibrant role model for young girls interested in STEM fields. I found myself wishing to be like her, despite her being just sixteen.
After the film, I encountered a group of black kids who attended the screening with their moms. They were radiating joy, decked out in stunning tribal attire, and spent time capturing Boomerang videos of themselves channeling their inner warriors from the film. Their confidence and empowerment were awe-inspiring. These young girls witnessed true black girl magic for two hours—something I lacked at their age.
We are navigating tumultuous times, and young people continually remind us adults of our potential. These girls knew they were powerful—not just as women, but as black women. Even the youngest among them recognized her worth.
This is precisely why representation is paramount. It’s crucial for black children to see themselves in roles of power, where they are not merely side characters or comic relief. After years of seeing heroes like Captain America and Iron Man, it’s vital to understand that black individuals can also be their own saviors. T’Challa fights alongside others, but he stands independently as Wakanda’s protector.
Now, black children have superheroes who reflect their identities, inspiring them to embrace their heritage.
It’s equally essential for white audiences to witness this reality, so they can appreciate the richness of black narratives beyond harmful stereotypes. Everyone needs to recognize that blackness is something to celebrate, showcasing the diverse talents and contributions of black individuals.
Young girls should learn they possess immense power, while boys should see they can be heroes without conforming to negative stereotypes. Black children and adults alike must recognize their value and potential to contribute magnificently to society. They need to see themselves represented in films, on merchandise, and in broader culture, realizing their capacity for greatness.
Black Panther marks the beginning of a critical shift in our understanding of what it means to be black in today’s world. If this is just the start, the horizon looks dazzling.
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Summary
Black Panther is more than just a superhero film; it’s a celebration of black culture and identity. By showcasing strong black characters, particularly women, it challenges stereotypes and provides representation that empowers both children and adults. This film is a powerful step towards redefining narratives surrounding blackness in media, and its impact is profound and far-reaching.
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