Upon the tragic and untimely passing of Chadwick Boseman, the world’s favorite T’Challa in Marvel’s Black Panther, grief-stricken fans everywhere were left questioning how the franchise could move forward after such a devastating event. Nevertheless, in November 2022, two years after Boseman’s death, the kingdom of Wakanda returned to the big screen in the thoughtful and powerful sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

The movie opens with T’Challa’s funeral, where characters dressed in white parade through the streets of Wakanda. Sitting in the theater, I could feel my heart syncing with the lively music. While actors Letitia Wright and Angela Bassett give a heart-wrenching and emotional performance throughout the film, the funeral was not so much a moment of sadness over loss but rather a celebration of life. 

This perfectly complemented the late Boseman’s inspiring, positive attitude. After the Black Panther is symbolically lifted into the sky, the Marvel opening theme plays, and smiling photos of Boseman decorate the iconic letters.

With its male protagonist T’Challa gone, Wakanda Forever showcases a strong female hero learning to grapple with grief while becoming, in place of her son, the face of Wakanda. Notably, there is no mention that it is unusual for a woman to rule one of the most powerful kingdoms in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. 

Queen Ramonda is both mighty and intimidating, traits which are not typically celebrated in women. However, the queen is cherished by the people of Wakanda, and her so-called “unladylike” characteristics make her all the more admirable. 

This movie easily passes the Bechdel Test—an evaluation of equal female representation in films—with female scientists, warriors, and inventors refreshingly taking up the majority of screen time. 

Audiences are greeted with familiar faces, such as Lupita Nyong’o and Martin Freeman, as well as new—and blue—ones. The movie centers around T’Challa’s sister, Shuri, played by Letitia Wright, who must discover who she wants to become in the wake of losing loved ones. Her character develops beautifully as she comes into her own and overcomes her most difficult battle: the one against herself.

Despite the occasional plot hole or questionable decision by Shuri, this fast-paced action movie makes it easy for viewers to suspend disbelief. With its beautiful visuals, outfits, and dramatic storyline, Wakanda Forever kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I had to remind myself multiple times that the battle scenes and soaring skyscrapers were just CGI; it felt like I was truly there, exploring the depths of the ocean or flying over Wakanda right alongside the charming characters.

Wakanda Forever aptly balances intense action and emotion, creating a must-watch for Marvel lovers and newcomers alike.