The embargo placed for Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) officially lifted earlier today and with that, the first reactions from critics worldwide have started surfacing.
There were little concerns to begin with but it should still ease fans that director Ryan Coogler has done a marvelous job. The first reactions are unanimously praising the movie adaptation across the board and the praise is not singled out for any particular aspect. The cinematography, special effects, storytelling, soundtrack, and performances are all being lauded.
The audience will be thrilled to know that Chadwick Boseman has done great justice to his titular role as T’Challa. However, the spotlight is also being aimed at Michael B. Jordan. His take on Erik Killmonger is being hailed by many as one of the best villains that MCU has seen in years. In addition, Letitia Wright has done a stellar job in the shoes of Shuri. Some critics have gone as far as to say that the tech-savvy sister of T’Challa managed to steal the show in more than one scene.
Here are a few of the first reactions for starters. The recent thread on Reddit compiles many more, including a few notable critics that claim the movie is good but not perfect.
Black Panther is set two years after the events of Captain America: Civil War, in which a brainwashed Bucky Barnes, played by Sebastian Stan, assassinated T’Chaka, the ruler of the African nation of Wakanda. The kingdom is now in political turmoil and on the brink of war.
Black Panther will open in theaters on February 16. It will be the last release in the MCU before the highly anticipated arrival of Avengers: Infinity War on May 4.
