Is Black Panther safe for kids? Should your kids see the newest Marvel super hero film? Check out this Black Panther Movie Review | Safe for Kids?, an honest parents guide and review of the latest Marvel release. No spoilers! #BlackPanther. May contain commissioned links.
Black Panther Movie Review | Safe for Kids?
I’m sure that you’ve been following the hype. Black Panther this. And Wakanda Forever that. It was hard to avoid all of the buzz and excitement that was following the first lead Black Marvel super hero film. But does Black Panther live up to the hype?
This parent has A LOT to say about that.
In this Black Panther Movie Review | Safe for Kids?, I’m talking visuals, the story, diversity (yes, we are going there), that PG-13 rating, and if I’m going to be bringing my kids to see this movie. No spoilers here.
Read the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Movie Review | Safe for Kids?
Grab your Black Panther Party Ideas with FREE Printable Game.
The Visuals
That casino scene? YES. The car chase that followed? YESSSSS! Explosions, fight scenes, CGI technological advances, Black Panther is exactly what you would expect for a super hero film. While some of the CGI Black Panther got a little distracting at times, the overall visuals were stunning, especially the color palette of the film. And 3D? Yep, I loved it.
And more than just explosions, CG effects and film technology, can we give a visual applause to the design of Wakanda itself? The appeal of African culture through the brilliant colors, beautiful people, amazing costumes and a stunning display of natural landscapes brought so much to the visual look of the film.
The Story
As a stand-alone Marvel super hero film, I would sum up the Black Panther story with one word – regal. That was the word that kept coming to mind throughout the film. From the fight sequences to the dialogue exchange to the overall “vibe” of the movie – everything was elegant, royal, purposeful. And I think that’s what made the story of Black Panther stand out from other Marvel films. It’s not chaotic and thrown together, but carefully planned out. Deeply rooted in traditions, community, hierarchy, pride – there’s a lot to be said for the overall family theme within the Black Panther movie. And let’s not forget the spotlight on our present day reality – war, oppression, politics.
Obviously, I’m not going to spoil the plot points. But I will say the overall story wasn’t earth shattering or had a crazy plot twist. Could I anticipate where the story was going? Yes. But was it entertaining? Yes, yes it was. Be sure to stay until the VERY end of the movie – for 2 end credit scenes.
The Importance of Diversity in Marvel Films
Diversity, diversity, diversity. A long time coming, I have to pause this Black Panther movie review to applaud Marvel for finally celebrating a super hero world where diversity reigns. As a mom raising multicultural kids, I cannot stress how important it is that we are seeing a Marvel world with a diverse cast of leading characters. They’re beautiful. They’re strong. They’re representative of a huge part of the human race as we know it. And the more that we (and our kids) see diversity in films, the more accepting we will be. I truly believe this. Bullying, racism, prejudices…I can go on and on how so much of our world is affected by diversity.
And finally showcasing African culture as a dominant, amazing and wonderful part of our world – I 100% love it. Then add that there are African women that are beautiful, strong and leading the culture of Black Panther – lots of good talking points with the kids, y’all. Oh and can we give a huge praise that the two amazing places of Wakanda and South Korea are featured in the same movie?
That PG-13 Rating
Is Black Panther safe for kids? Ok, parents. Here are the meat and potatoes if you’re on the fence about bringing the kids to see this Marvel film. I was THRILLED that the regal feel of the film carried throughout every aspect of Black Panther, including the language. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that Black Panther is ok for children.
Black Panther is rated PG-13 for “Sequences of Action Violence and a Brief Rude Gesture.” But you know how I feel about MPAA ratings. Not everything is disclosed with kids in mind. Is Black Panther kid friendly?
Adult themes. Mild. As per usual Marvel standards, we keep the downlow on adult themes for little ones who could be watching. Brief kissing, flirtation, sexy outfits, alcohol consumption (not by the main characters) and mild suspense.
Violence. As far as the action, I would also compare this as mild to other Marvel super hero films. There are a few more intense scenes, including a slit woman’s throat, gun kill shots and a few piling bodies. But nothing quite as intense as say Avengers or Captain America. But keep in mind, these are humans fighting humans, not humans fighting aliens. Adds a realistic angle. Also keep in mind that the action isn’t happening all of the time. Dialogue-heavy for wiggle worms.
Language. Overall the profanity was mild – a couple of mild sh*t references (that could go almost completely unnoticed) and one middle finger response. Do I believe that Marvel could have excluded these from the film? Absolutely. But overall, I was thrilled with the toned down language.
What Black Panther Age Rating Is Recommended for Kids?
Would I take my own kids? As far as violent and suspenseful Marvel films would go, I would definitely consider taking my 9 year old son to see Black Panther. This was more of the milder PG-13 rating than more intense action ones like Captain America or heavy language ones like Guardians of the Galaxy. My 5 year old girl wouldn’t be able to handle the violence yet. But she’s getting there.
Overall Thoughts
Black Panther as a stand alone Marvel film was highly entertaining on so many different levels. Opening the world’s eyes to accepting African culture, people and diversity – it’s a huge historic leap in the right direction. I loved the regal vibe that continues throughout the film, with a wide array of visually stunning scenes. And can we talk about the soundtrack? I think I found some new workout tunes.
While mild on the parent scale, I would caution parents about the violence and few language references in the film. But if they have seen any of the other Marvel super hero films – your kids will LOVE it. While I don’t anticipate Black Panther winning any awards any time soon, as an overall kick-butt entertaining film, it was exactly what the hype said it would be – worth watching.
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BLACK PANTHER arrives in theatres everywhere this Friday, February 16, 2018!
Will you be taking your family to see Marvel’s Black Panther movie?
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shelly peterson says
We are looking forward to seeing this movie. My 8 year old grandson wants to see it also. I might take him. I think this will be ok for him to watch. Thanks for the review.
Jeanine Carlson says
I think this would be a wonderful movie for all to see!
Dandi D says
My husband and I really enjoy the Marvel movies, so we can’t wait to see this one!
Janet W. says
This looks like a very entertaining, action-packed movie! Can’t wait to see it!
The One says
Great review!
Drewcifer says
You do realize wakanda is a fictional country, right?
christie says
Um, yes?
Ivory says
Thank you so much for your review about this movie. My husband, son, and I plan to go see it this coming Friday or Saturday. We are really excited even more so to see it.
Kelly m says
Thank you so much for this! it;s so helpful
Daniel says
Great review! I loved the movie myself and thought it would be appropriate to watch with the family!
Dandi D says
We still haven’t seen this movie, but we’ve heard so many good things about it! I can’t wait to see it!