Since the first “Black Panther” movie was released in 2018, a lot has changed in the grand scheme of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel’s own compelling storyline. Marvel’s catalog now includes a total of 40 movies and television series. Most notably, Chadwick Boseman, who had the role of the almighty “Black Panther” in the first movie, passed away in 2020 following a private battle with colon cancer. His death shook the world, and many wondered if and how Marvel would produce a second movie with his absence.

 In May 2021, Marvel announced that the second film in the installment would be titled “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” and it would be released on May 6, 2022. Due to COVID-related concerns and because not many people were going to the theater, the movie was eventually released on November 11, 2022. It became the #1 movie in its opening weekend, opening to $181 million domestically and over $331 million worldwide, becoming the second-largest opening weekend of 2022, just behind another Marvel project, “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” (BoxOfficeMojo). 

I watched the movie during an early screening on November 10^th, and it was a full experience. The theater was sold out and filled with fans of “Black Panther” and the Marvel franchise. The lights went out, and the movie began. The movie’s introduction was changed to a minute of silence honoring Chadwick Boseman’s legacy and contributions to the Marvel universe. Everyone in the theater went silent and stayed silent throughout the entire movie. Once the movie was over, everyone rose to their feet, and the theater erupted with applause. 

Now, for my review of the movie. The movie was a cinematic masterpiece. It was a rollercoaster of emotions. I enjoyed how the movie stayed true to its plot while honoring and respecting Boseman’s legacy. The character Shuri, played by Letitia Wright, was executed very well. The film passes Wright the torch, making her the new Black Panther. The movie showcases themes of grief and true friendship while still maintaining its purpose as a cool action movie jam-packed with fight scenes. 

Angela Bassett, who played the role of the queen of Wakanda, shines in the movie. Her acting in the film deserves many awards, and I hope to see her recognized in the upcoming awards season. The movie introduced the character “Ironheart” played by Dominique Thorne. Ironheart is a character with much potential and brought a sense of lighthearted humor to an overall sad film. The villain in the film, Namor, is played by Tenoch Huerta, who did an excellent job showcasing his range and made me genuinely dislike his character. Overall, the movie and its plotline were terrific. I would recommend the movie to anyone who is a fan of Marvel movies. I would consider the movie better than the 2018 installment. Tickets are still available, and the movie is expected to run in select theaters until the beginning of January.