The Cultural Relevance of Black Panther

We are three weeks into the phenomenon that is Black Panther!  Wakanda forever!  I left  my local movie theater with the biggest grin on my face and an extra pep in my step.  To say I was proud of the beautiful melanin displayed in that film is an understatement.  In this week's episode I have a friend on as a guest and we discuss the cultural relevance of the movie.  Many people get to take for granted having positive images of themselves in film and television, but for African Americans this is a rare representation.  We are used to images of brown bodies seen as dangerous, unstable and something to be feared.  More often than not black men are seen as drug dealers, lazy, or thugs.  Black women are usually seen in subservient roles or as hyper-sexual vixens.  To be able to experience over two hours of a cinematic experience where absolutely none of those stereotypes existed was a dream come true.  Hollywood managed to get one right!  If you have not had a chance to see this film, I am not sure what you are waiting on.  This is not a "black" movie.  This is a movie with a super hero anyone can look up to.  It's clean and family friendly.  There is something for everyone to enjoy.  Share your experience and opinion of the film Black Panther on my Facebook page or on the website.