There I was, popcorn and cherry-flavored ICEE in hand, excited to see the latest addition to the Marvel cinematic universe. As I approached the theater, I realized I missed the memo on attire when I saw a sea of people dressed head-to-toe in white and other cream-colored garments, a choice I would later understand. 

Earning 84% on Rotten Tomatoes, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” was the highly anticipated sequel to “Black Panther,” released in theaters Nov. 11. The film was written and directed by Ryan Coogler, who directed the first “Black Panther” in 2018. Despite its lengthy run-time of 2 hours and 41 minutes, the film’s pacing is marvelous (no pun intended), and you won’t notice, or care, that you’re sitting in a theater for almost three hours.

After the tragic death of lead actor Chadwick Boseman, fans wondered what was to come of the beloved franchise and character. However, as opposed to forgetting the actor and his work, the film acknowledged his passing, ending the story of King T’Challa and allowing characters and fans to mourn his death.

Shortly after announcing T’Challa’s death in the first scene of the film, the people of Wakanda celebrated his life, adorning themselves with white garments and jewelry, and it suddenly made sense why my fellow movie-goers were mirroring the clothes worn by the characters. While the characters onscreen were mourning the loss of their king, viewers were mourning someone who provided positive representation for Black people everywhere.

The film’s overarching message is centered around overcoming grief while honoring the legacy and life of deceased loved ones. Shuri (Letitia Wright), T’Challa’s sister, is the main protagonist throughout the film, and her journey to the throne is somber as she battles the loss of family.

Thrust into a war between land and sea, Shuri is forced to discover who she is as a leader and how she will protect her home and people against antagonist Namor (Tenoch Huerta) and the Talokan, a nation similar to the underwater world of Atlantis.

Alongside exploring a complicated message regarding grief and acceptance, the film has some of the most beautiful cinematography I’ve seen. Between the scenes of Wakanda and Talokan, I couldn’t decide which location was more stunning, which made it challenging when deciding who to root for when the two nations went to war.

This film doesn’t shy away from portraying women as powerful either, with each female character simultaneously embodying the phrase “Girl Boss.” Shuri, Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), Okoye (Danai Gurira) and Namora (Mabel Cadena) are all represented as fierce but elegant women and soldiers, offering support and protection to the people of their respective homes.

And what’s a film without amazing music to aid viewers in their cinematic experience? The film features a beautiful soundtrack comprised of artists such as Rihanna, Tems and Burna Boy. One of the most popular songs from the soundtrack is “Lift Me Up,” which was written by Rihanna and Ludwig Goranson, who composed the music for the first film. The song currently sits at number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Another aspect of this film that I couldn’t get enough of was the wardrobe, especially the attire worn by the character Ramonda (Angela Bassett). During a fictional united nations meeting, Ramonda appears wearing the most lavish purple dress with gold and emerald detailing. I couldn’t take my eyes off her.

Marvel movies are famous for their exciting post-credit scenes that hint at new characters and possible sequels to popular films; this movie is no exception to that. It’s safe to say I did not expect the ending I got, and I cannot wait for what’s in store for the future of the Black Panther franchise.

I have no critique or complaints about the production of the film. From the powerful storytelling to the cinematography, music and fashion, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is an enjoyable sequel that acknowledges and honors the life of Chadwick Boseman while providing viewers with an inspiring insight into mourning the loss of loved ones.