If you have teens and you're looking to entertain them this weekend, you should consider taking them to see the follow up of the hugely successful Black Panther. Not only will they witness a visual feast, they'll learn some key life lessons. (Be aware, however, there is some violence -- the movie is rated PG-13.)
In Black Panther: Wakanda Forever the Marvel universe is full of color, impressive special effects, and big, bold characters who are ready to fight for what they deem right. Heading up their cause is the striking and ferociously smart Princess Shuri, played by Letitia Wright.
Throughout the movie, you see the young princess trying to come to terms with the death of her brother, King T'Challa -- the main character of the first movie, played by the late-Chadwick Boseman.
She also has to fight other demons along the way, but throughout the film you see her mature, and find her own way, while leaning on her family and their memory for guidance and inspiration.
And this is the biggest takeaway from the movie. Without giving too much away, family is central to the plot. Between a mother's love and an unbreakable sibling bond, decisions are made that can change the face of the earth. Revenge is the thread binding characters together, but mercy is the virtue that allows them to move forward.
Tradition at the forefront
While many have also spoken about the incredible costumes and scenery throughout the two-hour movie -- and they are truly spectacular -- the messages the attire sends is equally as important.
We see strength and pride in the clothing worn by different members of the Wakanda nation -- costumes that reflect parts of Africa in the real world. We see rituals involving clothing that honor the dead. Through this the viewer witnesses the importance of tradition.
In fact, while the rituals and traditions are different from those we see in the Church, our children can appreciate the beauty of these observances, and might look at the practices they witness during the liturgy each week with a reaffirmed faith, and pride.
And for those who appreciated the late Chadwick Boseman, Marvel Studios honored him in a creative and moving way during the movie that will no doubt bring a tear to your eye.
