It’s been four years since the original “Black Panther” came out and two since they started production on “Wakanda Forever.” The anticipation is finally over, but the question is: “Was the wait worth it?” 

On Wednesday, I had the amazing opportunity to attend an early cast and crew screening of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” at the Fox Theatre. This was my first-ever movie premiere with VOX and I am so glad I was able to go. Many attendees dressed up in traditional clothing as featured in the movie. Just waiting outside, I could tell that everyone was so excited to finally see the sequel.

For me, and everyone I talked to, the delays in production and the long haul to the release of the movie were worth it. My scribbled-down notes sum up my thoughts on the movie well: “absolute chills” and “keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time.” This is a spoiler-free article for anyone who hasn’t seen it, but I think you’re in for a real treat.

If you’re on the fence about splurging to see this movie in a theater, I would definitely recommend it for the experience. The big screen and surround sound make this movie really come to life. 

“It’s amazing,” said moviegoer Kiki Carr. “I don’t know why you wouldn’t see it.” 

Another attendee, Renee Chiarelli, said “Wakanda Forever” is better than the first film.

There were too many amazing things about this movie to list them all, but the costumes really stood out. The movie’s costume designer, Oscar winner Ruth Carter, came on stage before the film and talked about the work that goes into producing a movie as big as this. After her appearance, I made sure to pay close attention to the costuming throughout the movie.

Even more than the first film, “Wakanda Forever” incorporates so many different cultures, like the Aztecs from South America. The sequel introduces a new race, the Talokanil. The people’s clothing and origin story pull from Aztec mythology and are supported by a largely Mesoamerican cast playing the members of the hidden civilization. It even touches on the colonization of native peoples and how the disease and famine brought by Spanish explorers devastated entire communities.

“Wakanda Forever” has the perfect balance of heartfelt moments, action and humor. On Wednesday night, the whole audience was so engaged: laughing at the witty sarcasm, gasping at the twists and turns, and cheering on the heroes in the action-packed fight sequences. 

I’m not the only one who enjoyed the range of feelings this movie evoked. Said Carr: “Really beautiful, it was really tender. It felt really deep but it was also joyful and hilarious.”

This movie was so well done and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who has the option to go see it in theaters.