Black Panther. Where does one start to discussing the resounding success that is the latest Marvel superhero film? Its list of achievements continues to grow: Highest-grossing solo/non-sequel superhero movie, highest ticket resales for any superhero film, February opening weekend record. However, what it is perhaps most popular for is being the first black superhero film. Even before its release, it was expected that Black Panther would be a revolutionary film. But will it cause the turn in opinion and film production that we all hope for?
A few weeks after the release of Black Panther, it is safe to say that this film is a resounding success. This is despite the belief by decision-makers in the studio that black films, and indeed black leading roles, do not bring people to the cinema, especially in Asian countries and Russia where it is thought that “black films don’t travel well”. That myth was diminished by accumulating an opening weekend of $169 million abroad. We can also see how successful the film was by the general reaction of people online.
Before the release, there was an almost unanimous pact that Black Panther would not be illegally streamed/downloaded online. People flocked to the cinema to show the moguls they want more of these films and their reaction after seeing the film was fantastic. There are some things that Black Panther has done that are indisputable. For one, the film has encouraged young girls to become fiercer and strive for more male-dominated roles. Like the increase in girls taking up archery following The Hunger Games, it is expected that more girls will now look to the sciences for a career. This is not surprising considering the role of Princess Shuri played by Letitia Wright, lead scientist and the smartest individual in the Marvel universe.
It can also not be denied that Black Panther has added a bigger voice to the cry for more films with black leads. Actually, Black Panther probably provides the largest and most influential voice considering the widespread love for superheroes. Still, we should remember that Black Panther is not alone in its fight. Hidden Figures, Get Out, Moonlight can also be considered advocates for change. They also broke records but can we say they that any big change in the industry came about because of them? Black Panther has broken more records than one could have wished for but unfortunately, I don’t think it will be the sole reason for a turning point in Hollywood – if there will be one at all in the near future. The road is still a long and winding one. It is also not the only struggle in the industry. We still have problems of women being recognized for their work and the social community is also currently active in bringing change in this area. Can we fight two big problems together? Will one have to take a back seat to another or will neither make the progress needed or deserved? It is sad to have to ask these questions but it shows just how strong white, male-led Hollywood is.
Another question to be answered is “does it matter what the turning point is matter once there is a turning point?” Would the making of more films with black leads where we don’t use indicators of sales in countries with less diversity be considered a significant success? Or should the goal be that we stop asking altogether how and if a black lead film should be considered a success? Unfortunately, I don’t have the answers. All I have is the ability to ask questions, to fight individually for a more inclusive Hollywood and encourage others to do so.
Yet, don’t be discouraged. Black Panther may not be the sole turning point we all long for but it has been in gaining instrumental in garnering publicity and bringing an important issue to the forefront. All we need is to keep this up and soon more change will come.
