As the most substantial film Marvel Studios has made to date,Black Pantherhas a lot going on.
The smartest person in the world?
Shuri (Letitia Wright).
Nakia (Lupita Nyongo).
The personal bodyguards of the Black Panther?
All women, led by Okoye (Danai Gurira).
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Shes showing them off, and even uses him as a test subject.
Young boys are told to be a man or man up, both of which are loaded commands.
What does it mean to be a man in this context?
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Dont be overly emotional.
If someone wrongs you or your family, handle it with your fists.
Dont try and talk your way out, thats for sissies.
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Make your dad/uncle/brothers/cousins proud.
Physical violence is masculine.
Killmonger verbalizes this mentality when he arrives in Wakanda, seeking to take the throne away from TChalla.
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His father was murdered by TChaka.
He cant change that.
But he can make it right by fighting TChalla to the death.
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Hes not here to talk or be diplomatic, hes here to get his.
Screw whats expected of you; do whats right.
Do they follow Killmongers orders and attack TChalla, or do they stand down and turn on Killmonger?
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Because thats what theyre expected to do.
The all-female Dora Milaje, however, turns on Killmonger.
They do whats right.
Image via Marvel Studios
Black Panthers approach to masculinity feels especially unique when compared to other superhero movies.
TChalla, on the other hand, is all about collaboration.
This is but one of many layers toBlack Panther, yet it feels like a vitally important one.
And in this day and ageespecially in the realm of blockbuster filmmakingthats a rarity.
For more onBlack Panther, peruse our recent coverage in the links below:
