The number of science-fiction and superhero films is constantly increasing, and many of them deal with serious problems. Black Panther is an example of such a movie, which demonstrates how science interacts with literature and society. Directed by Ryan Coogler and based on Marvel Comics, it shows fictional events, but at the same time, reveals the real social flaws and the importance of national unity and technological progress.
Scientific advancement, narrative structure, and social issues are the main elements of the plot. The story is set in the fictional African country Wakanda, where people use advanced technologies, such as the bulletproof costume for King T’Challa. The critical theory used by Coogler (2018) to demonstrate the interconnections of science, literature, and society can be connected to cultural studies since it deals with the problems of racial inequality and cultural stereotypes. These challenges are presented in a narrative form, which proves the power of media and fiction to address essential social issues.
Even though the story is set in a fictional country, the social problems it accentuates can be applied to the modern world, where cultural prejudices is a global problem. However, besides racial issues, the film underlines the role of the nation’s collaborative power since Coogler (2018) presents Wakandans as a close community hidden from the rest of the world.
The role of science is also underlined throughout the movie: the advanced medicine, weapons, and vehicles demonstrate that openness to technological changes ensures the power of the nation. Narrativity, or media perspective, is another aspect that proves the role of literature in the plot. In this movie, Coogler (2018) depicts how Africa could look without the years of colonization. It may remind the audience about literary works, such as Thomas More’s Utopia, where he attempted to show a perfect society. Therefore, multiple motives and problems actualized in the movie make a contrast with its design: a science-fiction action film effectively demonstrates real social issues.
In conclusion, Black Panther is a bright example of how different disciplines can be reflected in one movie. Dealing with real-life social issues, it presents a fictional world and underlines the significance of science and its role in the nation’s development. This contrast between real and unreal, actors’ play, gripping plot, and the profoundness of the ideas accentuated by filmmakers make this movie unique among other superhero films.
Reference
Coogler, Ryan, director. Black Panther. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, 2018.