Chapter 1. A Hollywood Blockbuster: Black Panther
Watch the two clips provided: The first is from Marvel/Disney's Black Panther, and the second is from a discussion on Bloomberg Television about the popularity of the movie. Then answer the questions below. ”Submit” your response to each question.
Discussion Questions
1. Time magazine writer Jamil Smith described Black Panther as “splendidly black.” From what you see in the first clip, what elements of the film do you think caused Smith to characterize the movie this way? Consider elements such as casting, storyline, music, set design, and costuming. Are there also elements that clearly identify this movie as a Hollywood blockbuster and a superhero movie?
2. Black Panther is the first superhero movie to be nominated for a best picture Oscar, and the first Marvel movie to win an Oscar (three Oscars, in fact: one each for costume design, production design, and score). Taking into account other superhero movies that you have seen—particularly other Marvel movies, such as The Avengers, Spiderman, and Thor—how is Black Panther similar to these films? How is it distinctive?
3. Consider the clip from Bloomberg Television about the popularity of Black Panther. Do you agree with the analysis that was presented? Why or why not?