Marxist Analysis of Black Panther

Abstract

This Marxist analysis of the 2018 Marvel film Black Panther explores the film's underlying ideologies about African Americans. The film is known for its cinematography, action-packed choreography, soundtrack, and inspiring plot. On top of that, the majority of the main cast is African American. For many, this film represents progress. It has provided well-paying jobs to African Americans, a marginalized community with fewer opportunities in Hollywood. However, this analysis explores the aspects of this film that aren't acknowledged, that hide behind the excitement of a Hollywood plot, and that may even contradict the praise that the film has received. Under the magnifying glass that is Marxism, one might notice the failure to acknowledge the dominant culture's participation in Black oppression. In turn, this causes an unhealthy emphasis on Black-on-Black aggression, justifies economic disadvantages for the Black community, and gives an illegitimate portrayal of Black success—hiding it all under a guise of entertainment and progress. While this film has done wonders for the Black community, it is not benign.