Black Panther: Superheroes And Inclusion

Black Panther is one of the newest Marvel movies. Viewers and critics have reacted to the film in different ways. Some have only good things to say, while others find just the opposite. Though the reviews are mixed, was Black Panther a turning point in the superhero genre.

Black Panther was directed by Ryan Coogler. Almost everyone in the cast is black. The move is based on a Marvel comic of the same name. Black Panther is the first dark-skinned African superhero.

Because of this, Black Panther was a well-known character for many years. Many people could identify with Black Panther because he was the only dark cartoon character.

Marvel Comics and DC are the two largest producers of comics in the United States. After Marvel published Black Panther, both Marvel and DC began to include more diverse characters in their comics.

Marvel soon introduced Luke Cage and Falcon, both black men. DC reinvented some of its white characters, including blackening Green Lantern.

From that moment on , the popularity of both producers increased considerably. That’s because more people were interested in their comics. Why is this change so important?

Inclusiveness and identification

To build a community, all members must feel that they are part of it. When people feel that they are part of something, it is much easier for society to grow.

When Black Panther was published, a new era of progressive inclusivity began. The comic book world and society in general began to move towards diversity.

By including characters of African and Asian descent and indigenous peoples, comic producers appealed to a whole new audience. We must not forget that for years the so-called “ethnic minorities” were marginalized and displaced by white hegemony.

These minorities had not been represented in movies and comics before. From the moment they also started to be part of this media , these ethnic minorities started to feel legitimized and recognized. This in turn led to better social dynamics as it increased people’s tolerance and understanding.

Black Panther: a box office success

The film Black Panther is another step towards tolerance and equality. The film was released in 2018 and tells the story of the Black Panther character from the comic books. It takes place in Wakanda, a fictional African nation. After the murder of their leader and king, Wakanda must turn to T’Challa, the prince and successor to the throne.

T’Challa, Black Panther’s alter ego, is superhuman. He has super speed and super strength, which help him protect Wakanda. T’Challa has to deal with the challenges that come with being a king. With the help of his sister Shuri, the spy Nakia, and the Dora Milaje warriors, T’Challa manages to fend off the attacks on his people.

Black Panther has challenged multiple stereotypes. Not only is the cast generally dark, which is very rare in mainstream movies, but it was also an opportunity for dark filmmakers. The director and producers of the film are also all dark.

In addition, Black Panther also has strong, independent and intelligent female characters. Princess Shuri, T’Challa’s younger sister, is a brilliant young scientist and engineer who invents and builds for her community.

Nakia is a warrior and spy, who helps women who find themselves in violent situations. T’Challa’s royal guard is also made up of strong, impressive women. His warriors are the best and most highly skilled warriors in the entire kingdom.

Movies can trigger social changes

Movies can promote certain ideas and ideologies. While certainly not the only factor at play, inclusive representation in film is a pathway to new ways of building and perceiving social relationships.

Equal representation is on the rise. Today we see characters from all different ethnicities and cultures take center stage. More diversity on the big and small screen will make our society more tolerant and diverse as a whole.