Today Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will make its theatrical debut in the US. Millions of fans are looking forward to seeing the latest film iteration within the franchise. The first movie generated $1 billion in revenue in worldwide sales, and some film critics think the sequel may reach an even broader audience. It is always fun to support these blockbuster films as they entertain us and break world records.
A couple of days ago, I attended the premiere of a film at the St. Louis International Film Festival. It was an indie film by director, actor and producer-Bruce Cunningham Jr. The film was entitled Un-resolved. It was one of the best independent projects I have ever seen. I enjoyed being there with the audience and participating in a talkback with the production’s cast. I believe when the film gets a distribution deal, the project will gain much public interest.
I couldn’t help but think of Un-resolved receiving the kind of audience reception that Black Panther does. Another movie that comes to mind is Furious 7.
Back in 2015, I went to go see Furious 7 and it was a packed house. I grabbed one of the only remaining seats in the first row of the movie theater. At this point, I had seen several of the previous installments and I certainly was a fan. Furious 7 had everything an action movie fan could want including a production with a solid budget, good actors, and nice cameo appearances. I was happy to see UFC’s former Women’s Champion, Ronda Rousey, have an awesome cameo.
Like the previous installments of the franchise, Furious 7 moves from scene to scene with tenacity, seamlessly transitioning between interpersonal character interactions and energetic live-action. The production’s primary emphasis involves bringing a stunning visual experience to audience through its unique cinematography.
Since the debut of the original movie in 2001, The Fast and Furious has evolved into a global phenomenon. After the release of 2 Fast 2 Furious, Universal Pictures recruited director Justin Lin to produce an independent spin-off with stars Vin Diesel and Paul Walker-entitled Furious Tokyo Drift. However, Lin handed the reins to James Wan for production on Furious 7. Despite the change in direction, the film showcases the high-flying action sequences that made its predecessors box office hits.
The new film takes storytelling in a different direction. The fifth and sixth films featured extensive plotlines for the ensemble cast; the latest primarily focuses on Dominic Toretto’s journey to protect his “family” and rekindle lost love.
Fans of the franchise wondered how the production team would finish the project due to the tragic death of Paul Walker. Wan and writer Chris Morgan depicted the actor’s exit from the franchise in compelling fashion, with both entertainment value and extraordinary class; they created an extremely moving tribute throughout the film, particularly before the ending credits.
The Furious 7 cast includes: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Kurt Russell, and Jason Statham.
View Imax Trailer:
