Every year, new superhero films come and go, but Marvel has assembled quite the catalog of hits including “Iron Man” and “The Avengers”. Marvel’s “Black Panther” movie was praised as one of the all-time best for its translation of the classic comic book to the big screen. It depicted the powerful story of Wakanda, a mythical land in which the people are in need of a ruler. Thanks to the bravery and perseverance of the main hero T’Challa/Black Panther, they receive that leader they need. The film is also showing how much it has inspired cosplay at Dragon Con and other conventions.
The Black Panther hero originated in Marvel’s comics back in 1966 thanks to the legendary Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. T’Challa is the son of King T’Chaka of Wakanda. Once his father is murdered, T’Challa has to return home to reclaim the throne. He also assumes the powers of the Black Panther thanks to consumption of a magical herb. That allows him superhero powers including superior strength, speed, agility, healing, reflexes, and stamina.
In the film, actor Chadwick Boseman delivered a strong performance in the lead role, but he was only part of the story. Other standout characters included strong female heroes Shuri (Letitia Wright), and Okoye (Danai Gurira), each of whom reprised their roles in “Avengers: Infinity War.” There was also the film’s top villain, Erik “Killmonger” Stevens. Popular actor Michael B. Jordan took on the role and delivered a great performance as well.
The movie was very well-received by audiences and critics as it holds a 97 percent rating at Rotten Tomatoes, a website which collects critics’ reviews. “Black Panther” delivered such a powerful tale for moviegoers to take in. It was also the first Marvel movie to focus on African American heroes, as well as the native land Wakanda. Critics praised the film for acting, production, soundtrack, and costume design, among other aspects.
It’s become normal for cosplayers to descend upon the latest Comic Conventions including popular Cons held in New York City or San Diego. Dragon Con is no different, as attendees dressed in everyday attire will mingle with those dressed as their favorite heroes. Iconic characters like DC’s Batman, Wonder Woman, and The Joker are commonplace So are Marvel fan favorites including Wolverine, Captain America, Thor, and Black Widow.
However, Black Panther cosplay has become part of the mixture of amazing costumes. The latest edition of the event in Atlanta, Georiga has already seen Black Panther cosplay on full display. Slideshows of popular costumes include the movie’s main star, with a cosplayer delivering an impressive translation of the costumed look.
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That particular individual was not alone in terms of dressing up in a costume based on the movie either. In fact, one photo shows a group of people in “Black Panther” film-inspired garb. They’ve paid homage to not only the film’s main hero but also many other characters including Killmongerm, as well as supporting heroes Okoye and Shuri.
Atlanta’s Dragon Con is just one example of Black Panther cosplayers in the world. It goes to show just how powerful the film has been in terms of inspiring African Americans to proudly wear these costumes at events. It won’t be surprising to see a number of these cosplay-style outfits this coming Halloween either.
