BLACK PANTHER Review: The Women of Wakanda

Marvel has never been shy about having women superheroes in their movies. We had Black Widow introduced in IRON MAN 2, Gamora in GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY, and Scarlet Witch in AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON. However, woman in Marvel movies aren't always leading their movies. Maria Hill, Sharon Carter, and Lady Sif are among the few who have major potential, but aren't in the forefront of the films. In contrast, BLACK PANTHER, on top of its amazing black representation, had the women right in the center of the flick. 

There are no damsels in distress moments among any of these women. Each woman, in her own right, propels the plot along with her intelligence, strength, and own agenda. 

Starting with the warriors: The Dora Milaje, the special forces of Wakanda, are made up entirely out of women. Highly trained. Highly deadly. They are the protectors of the throne. What's refreshing is this is seen as the norm. No one looks twice at a team of badass women more than capable of protecting a country. 

The leader of the Dora Milaje is General Okoye played by Danai Gurira. She is T’Challa’s right hand gal and confidant. Her loyalty lies with Wakanda and she will stop at nothing to protect it, even siding with a villain, momentarily. A warrior as talented (if not more) than T’Challa, her fight scenes are incredible to watch as she is armed with only a vibranium staff, Okoye has definitely already become a fan-favorite in this film.

Being deemed the new Disney princess, Shuri was one of the best parts of BLACK PANTHER. Portrayed by newcomer Letitia Wright, Shuri stole the show with her youthful wit and amazing gadgets which aid T'Challa throughout the film. She basically runs the tech lab in Wakanda and is the main reason for the country, and the Black Panther's, increasingly growing tech. 

With a higher intellect than even Tony Stark, Shuri is a role model who young women need right now, but especially young black women. What is better than seeing someone who looks like you as the head of their field and being respected for it? I expect to see many Shuri costumes for Halloween (editor note: and seen as cosplay at every comic convention from San Diego to London) this year. 

Nakia, played by the incredibly talented Lupita Nyong’o is a covert operative. She isn't part of the Dora Milaje, but instead is a spy for Wakanda in other parts of the world, helping those in need. Although, she is a love interest for T’Challa, she is also seen as an advisor who wants to share Wakanda’s resources with others who need it more, despite the controversy to do so. She is the moral center of the movie. 

Certainly one of the top Marvel movies yet, with much more to come. It seems inevitable for a BLACK PANTHER sequel — since it is only one of five films to ever take in over $200 million in its domestic opening weekend — and we'll see more of the Women of Wakanda in AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR.

Written by Carly B.

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