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Rating: 4.6/5
Review: "Black Panther IMAX 3D movie review" (135 minutes)

"Marvel and director Ryan Coogler has jump-start the year with a great adaptation of Black Panther. The plot may not be very fresh but its political and culture views, bolstered by great acting, makes this a mighty watch." 

Black Panther is not only the first big-budget movie released so far but it is also the first Marvel blockbuster for the year. And it has definitely amp up the expectations of the blockbusters coming soon in this year. Black Panther may be marketed as an action adventure movie but it delivers more than a generic superhero fare. Aside from some thrilling action scenes and a fast paced plot, Black Panther is intelligent and political. I am not saying Marvel does not create intelligent movies (Captain America: Civil War is one of the smarter movies), it is just that the engaging politics stands out in this. Director Ryan Coogler also did not shy away from creating an interesting and vibrant culture of Wakanda that is based on the African cultures. What he created was a smart, action adventure that is one of the best solo superhero movies.

The story: Black Panther does not waste time introducing its titular hero. Everything in this has a purpose even the unseemly beginning scene. Director Ryan mentioned that he likens this to a James Bond movie and he is not wrong. The first two acts are similar to a spy plot. There is espionage, cool technology and gadgets and action. It takes a turn for its final third act with a battle for the throne. Aside from the familiar themes, Black Panther has time to reflect emotionally. Powered up by some great acting by Chadwick Boseman as the new king of Wakanda, T'Challa and Michael B.Jordan as the villain Killmonger, the movie is a hoot to watch. It would be best to go in without any spoilers. Killmonger is one of the better Marvel's villain because his motives are more humanely understandable. However, he still can be improved. Shuri (played by Letitia Wright) shines as a witty sister of T'Challa. On the whole, the humor could be toned down a little too. It is more serious than Thor Ragnarok but its burst of humor at times ruined the mood of the scene. Music by Swedish Ludwig Göransson is a great mixture with African Tribal and modern music. However, there is no main theme for Black Panther which is a must-have for a superhero movie.

3D: It looks great on a huge screen. Details are sharp on IMAX. Though the 3D is immersive, it pales in comparison with Thor Ragnarok. My guess that 3D works the best with a fantasy action flick. When comes to a movie that is grounded in realism, the effect is not as enjoyable. There is still a strong sense of depth between characters and background. The 3D does not really work during its action scenes. Ryan likes his action frenetic and grounded so most of the action is shot with a shaky cam style and edited with fast cuts. It works best with quieter moments such as sweeping shots of the city and landscape. My take is that if you have the extra cash, IMAX 3D would be fine. If not, 2D would be great enough.

Overall: Black Panther kicks off a great start of the year in full gear. Marvel is going full on by ramping up the action and interesting perspectives of different superheroes. Black Panther is a great stand alone superhero movie that will interest and engage almost any target group. 

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