Black Panther (2018) directed by Ryan Coogler

Wakanda is a self-sufficient, technologically advanced African nation, which keeps apart from the world and disguises itself as an impoverished third world country to protect its vast resources. The death of the king exposes internal conflict over whether to maintain tradition and isolation or engage with the world and share Wakanda’s advantages. A visual feast of colour and movement, Black Panther features gorgeous scenery, fabulous technology and effects, plus stunning makeup and costumes. Martin Freeman is a strange choice to play a CIA agent, not least because his accent frequently slips, but the rest of the casting is pitch perfect. Chadwick Boseman is almost understated as the Black Panther, T’Challa, mourning his father and finding his way in replacing him as king. Michael B Jordan and Andy Serkis are satisfying villains; Lupita Nyongo is wonderful as activist and Wakandan spy Nakia; and Angela Basset is lovely as T’Challa’s mother. While Black Panther is the centre of the film, the character is not dominant but part of a well-rounded and diverse ensemble. Several strong female characters are particularly engaging, including the general and the king’s tech nerd sister. Like Guardians of the Galaxy, Black Panther sits securely in the Marvel Universe but also stands alone as a thoroughly entertaining film.