For weeks, Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther has remained in the center spotlight of U.S. cinemas, continuing to gross more than many of its competitors. Its box office popularity has stretched into March, Women’s History Month, which is fitting. Black Panther makes an obvious nod to women in a very positive light through Wakanda’s warriors and several key characters. They prove themselves to be virtuous and ingenious.
King T’Challa’s army is made up entirely of female members. The general in charge of them is Okoye who is benevolent and warlike in spirit but is also conflicted to a degree when faced with the problem of being loyal to her country or faithful to her friends. In the end, she chooses the best option for both her beloved nation of Wakanda as well as her dearest friends.
Nakia, King T’Challa’s girlfriend, shows a great love for her King in more ways than one, on a reverent level befitting his place and also on a more personal level. She displays a love for the safety of all, not just her own people. She believes Wakanda should help a world crying out for help in so many regards. Influencing the Black Panther, Nakia is able to see her dream of sharing Wakanda’s resources and technology with the world in order to make it a brighter one.
Last but not least, Black Panther’s own sister Shuri deserves a round of applause. Apart from flipping her brother off, she shines through as brilliant scientist, a go-getter, and a woman eager to share her knowledge with a hungry world. T’Challa and Shuri’s brother-sister relationship is by far one of the most endearing and heartwarming elements of the Black Panther film.
The women of Wakanda are main characters. They’re important to their country, and they are well-needed role models for men and women alike. They show us how to cherish one’s family, to be bold, to be loyal to one’s country, to be quick-witted, and most of all to have fun.
Editor’s Note: Featured image is by Lindsay Silveria and is under license by CC BY-ND 2.0. Top image is by Hannaford and is under license by CC BY-SA 2.0.
