Black Panther is the latest addition to ever-expanding MCU and it’s an unapologetic celebration of black culture and identity. The man at the helm is Ryan Coogler, behind Fruitvale Station and Creed – and he’s ensured his success rate remains at 100% with this wonderful production.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented (and unnervingly young) director as he explains to us why he felt so honoured to be spearheading this monumental project. It’s a film that has many socio-political undercurrents too, yet doesn’t once compromise on the playful, adventurous side to the film that ensures it remains totally in line with Marvel’s unadulterated commitment to entertainment. He explains why he believes to access such themes often doing so in a big, fantastical environment can breed the best results.

Finally he ends with a fascinating answer on the blurring of the line between good and evil. Black Panther has a complex, layered battle between Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) and the villain Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan) which has led to some critics comparing their different stances to that of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X, respectively – and we asked Coogler his thoughts on that matter.

Watch the full interview below…

Synopsis

After the death of his father, T’Challa returns home to the African nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king. When a powerful enemy suddenly reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king — and as Black Panther — gets tested when he’s drawn into a conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people.

Black Panther is released on February 13th – and you can read our 4* review of the film here.