With Inhumans screening in select IMAX theaters, Marvel’s Royal Family is currently stealing headlines left, right, and center – for all the wrong reasons, it appears – but come 2018, the prolific studio will be shedding light on another regal dynasty via Black Panther.
Headed up by writer-director Ryan Coogler, not only is Black Panther a historic addition to the MCU in its own right – Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s creation began life as the first black superhero in mainstream comics – but coming out of his appearance in Civil War, fans are curious to know more about the fictional nation of Wakanda.
Built on a vast reserve of vibranium, the super-powered metal responsible for Cap’s shield (and T’Challa’s skin-tight suit!), Wakanda is situated in a radically advanced corner of Africa. Still licking his wounds after the events of Civil War, T’Challa then returns home to find his sovereignty challenged by a long-time adversary in a conflict that has global consequences. Cue the fireworks.
All of that and more is teased up above, while today’s all-new and rather stylish TV spot also draws attention to Black Panther‘s impressive supporting cast. With Chadwick Boseman due to take point as the rightful heir to the Wakandan throne, we understand Letitia Wright is attached to the part of Shuri, T’Challa’s younger sister. Elsewhere, Danai Gurira is on board as Okoye, a member of the formidable Dora Milaje, with Lupita Nyong’o prepped and ready to appear as Nakia, a former ally to Boseman’s would-be king who switches sides mid-way through the movie.
Beyond that, there’s also room for Michael B. Jordan as the villainous Killmonger, Daniel Kaluuya, Angela Bassett, Winston Duke, Florence Kasumba, Sterling K. Brown, John Kani and Rogue One star Forest Whitaker. He’ll play Zuri, an old ally to T’Challa.
Marvel and Ryan Coogler will unleash Black Panther upon the moviegoing masses on February 16th. Indeed, 2018 is shaping up to be a landmark year for T’Challa, what with Avengers: Infinity War booked in for May 4th.
