Release of Black Panther: Implications for Disney and the Audience

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On Friday, February 16th, 2018, Black Panther was released in theaters. The movie was released by Marvel, which has the Walt Disney Corporation as its parent company. Disney had provided a $200 million budget for the film, which, for the first time, starred a black actor playing a superpower, and was directed by a black man. In just the first weekend, the movie has generated over $360 million across the world.


The release of this movie was highly anticipated, especially because of its messages about race - both in stories and in Hollywood. Many believe that it will set a powerful example of black leadership - especially for younger audiences, who will finally be able to see themselves reflected in power positions in films of this genre. I believe this proves that movies are not simply a couple hours of our lives that, otherwise, have no impact on our lives or development. Rather, the messages depicted through the entertainment industry can both empower and destroy one’s self image. I hope that, along with Black Panther, Disney continues to fall on the side of empowerment in the projects which it approves.

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