'Black Panther' news: Screening reactions hail the movie as an exceptional cultural phenomenon

Promotional poster for "Black Panther" Twitter/Black Panther

"Black Panther" is on the prowl now in American cinemas and has gained much praise from critics and celebrities alike, with some even labelling the superhero film as an important cultural landmark.

It seems that the unanimous verdict for "Black Panther" was overwhelmingly positive with a majority of critics commending the film. One review even stated that "Black Panther" gives justice to one of the most discriminated races on the planet, which is African-Americans, or Africans, stating that the film reminds the world that it is through the efforts and toil of black people to which a lot of civilizations owe their success.

Granted, some critics stated that the action scenes were typical and even predictable even for a Marvel movie. Nevertheless, it is perhaps the first in the franchise to exhibit a sense of identity & history. This particular compliment was directed at the portrayal of Wakanda, which is the fictional nation of T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) a.k.a. Black Panther that is basically a futuristic civilization of Africans masquerading as a third-world country.

The icing on the cake seems to be the women of the film as well, where they are portrayed as strong female warriors and equal to men and are also given as much spotlight as the male protagonists and antagonists of the movie. This was quite important as Marvel and Disney have quite a large reach of audience due to how popular their recent superhero movies are.

"Something like Marvel has a way of really affecting popular culture, and to have that popular culture informed with things that are of African origin and people knowing they are of African origin...is powerful. Hopefully, it changes the general idea of what being an African is. Too often times we see Africa as a place that is wanting and here it's a place that you want to go," stated Lupita Nyong'o who plays warrior Nakia in the movie.

Regardless, "Black Panther" is set to be one of the most extraordinary works of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) so far.

News
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic

The US State Department has said it is closely monitoring the prosecution of a Christian woman who prayed silently in an abortion clinic buffer zone. 

Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures
Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures

Hundreds of churches across the UK are receiving vital financial support to remain open and safe, as rising repair costs and shrinking funding streams place historic buildings under increasing strain.

How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year
How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year

Make the most of these last days of the year to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with God.

US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians
US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians

The US military has conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in Nigeria over the violent "targeting" of Christians.