In a consistently whitewashed Hollywood, people of color are often dramatically underrepresented. Roles that could be given to POCs are given to white actors. If POCs are in fact cast, the key roles are often specifically given to more light skinned actors and actresses.

As the public continues to demand more prevalent roles for POCs and even more diverse screenplay writers, directors and actors, Marvel’s “Black Panther” is championing black employment and may very well help pave the way for more black and other minority sustained films.

Since the film’s release on Feb. 16, the success of the movie is undeniable. The film was expected to smash box offices and make more money than any of the Marvel movies released in 2017, earning over $150 million. “Black Panther” then exceeded the predictions in its Presidents’ Day weekend debut, making $201.8 million. Black adults and their children are rushing to the theaters to support black business, and other movie goers alike are electric with enthusiasm.

The success of the film goes beyond ticket sales to one of intense cultural importance. The skillful depiction of multifaceted and complex characters of color offer black young kids especially the chance to finally see themselves in a superhero and inspire our young youth.

With culturally aware, witty dialogue as well as the promise of sequels on the horizon, the future for “Black Panther” and black film in general seems bright.

In addition to the film’s black cast, the film supports black excellence through and through with black director Ryan Coogler and other skilled black crew members. Not to mention, the killer “Black Panther” soundtrack curated by Kendrick Lamar, currently debuting at number one on the Billboard music charts. With contributors like ScHoolboy Q, SZA, Vince Staples, Khalid, The Weeknd and more, the soundtrack has some serious star power. The soundtrack epitomizes the sound of the film drawing from some of the best hip hop and R&B artists available and only adds to the importance and impact of the movie.  

The fact is “Black Panther” has a far greater impact than some may expect. The outroar of excitement coming from all walks of life for this film stems not just from it’s Marvel brand name tag but from its societal and cultural impact. The money standings and the social media praisings are proof in itself that “Black Panther” is the movie we’ve all been waiting for.