The Marvel Cinematic Universe is a behemoth world of serialized storytelling. As such, there are always a handful of new installments just shy of hitting movie theaters, keeping the overall hype for the MCU at a high, despite its nearly decade long run. So while Thor: Ragnarok may be the next to hit theaters, Ryan Coogler's Black Panther won't be far behind. This week scenes from Black Panther were shown to the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus, and early reactions have been very positive. In particular, the action sequences have been praised, and are described as an interesting mix of two action-packed films.
The action is kinetic, like a mixture of Coogler's fight scenes from Creed and the manic bullet ballets from Kingsman movies.
If that's not a winning combination, I'm not sure what is. Both Creed and the Kingsman franchise have contained thrilling fight scenes, and combining these two vastly different styles into Black Panther's action sounds like it will be wholly original and fantastic.
This quote comes to us from Dr. Jason Johnson, who wrote about the footage he witnessed over at The Root. He was able to luckily see the latest Black Panther footage, which should only add to the growing anticipation for T'Challa's first solo film.
One wouldn't think that Creed and Kingsman's styles could be combined, but the MCU is a place where the impossible can occur. Because while Creed's violence was practical and brutal, Kingsman is a franchise that is a bit more cartoonish and over the top. Eggsy and his compatriots are able to do wild things for their mission, and engage in epic shootouts. And when you combine these two styles and add some badass Vibranium gear, then you apparently are left with Black Panther.
Excitement for Black Panther began shortly after the title character's introduction in Captain America: Civil War. Chadwick Boseman brought a fierce performance to the threequel, and The Russo Brothers (very smartly) made him part of the act three grudge match between Cap and Iron Man. T'Challa's final moments in the film showed off the stunning country of Wakanda, while also putting him in charge of a sleeping Winter Soldier.
Development for Black Panther started shortly thereafter, and an absolutely stunning cast was assembled by Ryan Coogler. This includes Michael B. Jordan, Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong'o, Danai Gurira (The Walking Dead), Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and Daniel Kaluuya (Get Out). It's perhaps the strongest cast in MCU history, which will only help Black Panther's chance at becoming yet another box office and critical darling for the shared universe.
Black Panther will claw its way into theaters on February 16, 2018. In the meantime, be sure to check out our 2017 release list to plan your final trips to the movies before the New Year.
