Sunday, February 25, 2018

BLACK EXCELENCE FOREVER


Since some of the fucked-up world changes that occurred in 2017, I have not been inspired to write anything.  Until now.  Black Panther premiered in the U.S. on February 16, 2018.  I had been waiting for this film since I heard it was a possibility two years ago.  When Prince T'Challa graced the screen in Marvel's Captain America, Civil War I was anticipating the possibility of a stand alone film for Black Panther.  Now it is a reality.  Although Wakanda is a fictional place the image of Black excellence is something to aspire to.  Here are five reasons to not walk, but run to the movie theater to see this film.

1.  The wonderfully talented cast proudly hails from many parts of the African diaspora.  The Black Caribbean, Africa, Great Britain and the United States are represented well.  Everyone had a stand-out performance.

2. The movie is just a great piece of art.  Ryan Coogler, the young talented director from Oakland, did his thing in a big way.  He made me proud.  I am so glad that he was given an opportunity to spread his wings and soar to the highest heights.  I look forward to his next endeavor, whatever it is.

3.  Killmonger, played by Michael B. Jordan's message is as deep as I have ever seen in a film that does not preach at you.  His quest to connect the African diaspora is monumental, despite his flaws.  He brought tears to my eyes.

4.  The costume design and cinematography is like none I have ever seen.  The Dora Milaje's armor, and the Border Patrol's shields were innovative and embraced African culture in the most beautiful way.  Chadwick Boseman looked so regal in his kingly attire.  I could not get enough of the waterfall scenes as well as the ultimate Disney princess, Shuri's lab. The visuals were breathtakingly beautiful.

5.   Wakanda may not exist physically but it is an idea of excellence, cultural appreciation, and endless possibilities that we can all reach for.  Just the idea of it is enough.  I want to see more of this magical land in future films.    

I have seen the film three times so far.  I will not stop seeing it until they take it out of the theaters.  This phenomenon has made over a half a billion, worldwide, in it's first week. It strongly proves that when black people are given an equal footing, we can succeed in whatever we put our talents and mind to do.  The myth that Black culture, particularly in film cannot sell, is pure bullshit. 


BLACK EXCELENCE FOREVER

Since some of the fucked-up world changes that occurred in 2017, I have not been inspired to write anything.  Until now.  Black Panther p...