‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ continues the story

The sequel for a popular film often poses daunting challenges. Style and mood have been decided, characters defined, pace and cinematography established. Add to that, following in the wake of the extremely popular, technically accomplished 2018 “Black Panther,” “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” must cope with the tragic 2020 death of Chadwick Boseman who played King T’Challa, ruler of Wakanda.

Wisely, co-screenplay writer/director Ryan Coogler weaves King T’Challa’s death into the new story of the Wakandans again fighting to preserve their kingdom against those wanting to exploit the precious vibranium. The sobering truth is that this film lacks the magnificent magic of its antecedent, in some part due to how cluttered it is with subplots and supporting characters. At two hours forty minutes, that’s expected, of course, but the narrative flow, dialogue pauses, and action sequences need smoother flow and integration.

That aside, many of the scenes stand on their own as strong emotional and ideological statements, albeit interspersed with momentum braking exposition. It begins well, with an extended, opening funeral tribute to T’Challa (Boseman). Clearly established as the central characters in gorgeous white ceremonial dress, Queen Ramonda and Shuri follow the coffin intercut with magnificently choreographed dancers. After this homage, numerous issues charge the plot, including two kingdoms in conflict, annihilation of Indigenous people, colonizing countries ready to exploit deep-sea mineral resources from the Talokan Kingdom there, Ramonda reproaching the United Nations, vengeful retaliation by Namor, grappling with grief, normal life threatened, plus other themes. All the ideas and issues are worth exploration, but they clamor for time devoted to each of them rather than this busy assemblage, though a few cameos offer delightful additions.

In individual landscapes, the art, the costume, and the production design are impressive as are Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s cinematography and a team’s special effects. The sound design punctuates and interprets effectively, and, grabbing attention, of course, Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” captures the spirit of the film. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” entertains but also disappoints, perhaps because we expect so much more. In English and Xhosa, Maya, and French with English subtitles. At area cinemas, check listings.