The movie Wakanda Forever definitely delivers, continuing to manifest the intellectual prowess and culture of a beautiful people—a people that have often been trivialized and devalued in a dominant White society that prioritizes a Eurocentric agenda. The strength, culture, and creativity of people of African descent continue to be reflected, while offering another film that also serves to entertain and unite the African Diaspora and the world.
Probably the main selling point for this film, just as in the first movie of the series, Black Panther, is that it depicts a positive, strong, and admirable portrayal of Blacks—altering how Blacks are seen by themselves and many of their White counterparts. The movie continues to be refreshing, reminding or even educating Blacks of their greatness and making people of color feel extremely proud.
One main concern for many people was whether the movie could hold up to the fanfare of the original Black Panther movie, especially with the unfortunate passing of it key figure and hero T’ Challa played by Chadwick Boseman. It was important that the strength and majestic power of the Black Panther continue to be an uncompromising focus. For most viewers this was achieved. But some people may feel the Black Panther’s power and credibility was compromised by the substitution of a female lead, however powerful.
Chadwick Boseman created a powerful, regal, and charismatic Black hero. Some say that can never be equaled, but nonetheless, Wakanda Forever rises to the occasion, continuing to capture the energy and excitement of the audience. One must also realize the ever-present strength of the movie is in the dialogue. The plot revolves around protection of the valuable substance ‘vibranium’ from the manipulative diabolic aims of questionable nations seeking to use the valuable element for self-gain, power and control.
The movie invites its viewers to become critical, conscious, and sagacious thinkers in analyzing the motives of men—whether good or bad, and the dire consequences that may lie ahead if the wrong choices are made and implemented. Too often, humanitarian, benevolent endeavors are adulterated by diabolic individuals and groups for selfish purposes.
The reoccurring plot to keep the substance vibranium out of the hands of shady individuals or governments is understandable and commendable, despite the humanitarian good if it were used to benefit all mankind. Thus, we are presented with an ever-synergizing plot.
A nation of people of Mexican ancestry existing underwater in an Atlantis-like environment called ‘Talokan’ arises with the goal of secretly protecting their valuable resource of vibranium from the world. So you have two nations of people of color battling, only to conclude that they must work together to protect their vibranium interests.
The movie continues to tantalize it viewers with the rich culture and traditions of many African nations, thus acting as a conduit in reuniting the African Diaspora and educating the world to the beauty, intellect, and resilience of Blacks. The film also manifests the rich beauty of Mexican culture.
A special note should be given to the continued deference and respect given to the African ancestors. Their influence on their descendants in making decisions going forward is essential to the plot. This practice is a valuable, sacred, spiritual African tradition that seems to be waning for many young Africans Americans in the Western part of the world. The importance of the ancestors is paramount.
Wakanda Forever continues to show the greatness and beauty of Blacks to a generation of people who have for too long seen Blacks viewed in a negative light. The pride and joy the movie brings to people who may feel marginalized is immeasurable, giving them a greater sense of worth. From living in a country where we are inundated from a Eurocentric perspective on everything, it is invigorating for so many people to see things from a strong and powerful Afrocentric perspective.
