5 Ways ‘Black Panther’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

When ‘Black Panther’ hit theaters in 2018, it felt like a seismic shift in superhero cinema, bringing Wakanda’s vibrant world to life. Directed by Ryan Coogler and led by Chadwick Boseman, it was a cultural milestone that resonated far beyond the Marvel Cinematic Universe. 

Years later, revisiting the film reveals a mix of elements that shine brighter with time and others that haven’t held up as well. Some aspects feel dated or less impactful, while others remain powerful and timeless. Below, I explore five ways the movie has aged poorly and five ways it’s aged masterfully, alternating between the two. 

Aged Poorly – CGI Stumbles

The visual effects in ‘Black Panther’ were groundbreaking for their time, but some moments now look rough around the edges. The final battle in the vibranium mines, with T’Challa and Killmonger clashing, feels oddly weightless due to heavy reliance on digital characters. Compared to newer blockbusters with smoother CGI, these scenes can pull you out of the story. The chase in Busan also has moments where the digital sheen overshadows the practical stunts, making it less immersive today. 

It’s not that the effects were bad for their era, but technology has moved fast. Modern audiences expect seamless visuals, and these glitches stand out more now. The ambition was huge, but the execution hasn’t aged as gracefully as other parts of the film. 

Aged Masterfully – Cultural Impact

‘Black Panther’ broke barriers as a superhero film centered on Black characters, and its influence still echoes. It gave global audiences a vision of African excellence through Wakanda’s Afrofuturist aesthetic, inspiring pride and sparking conversations about representation. The film’s celebration of Black identity, from its costumes to its language, remains a touchstone for diversity in cinema. 

The way it empowered viewers, especially younger ones, to see themselves as heroes hasn’t faded. Its legacy lives on in art, fashion, and even political discourse, proving its staying power as more than just a movie. 

Aged Poorly – Formulaic Plot

The story of T’Challa facing a challenger to the throne follows a familiar superhero blueprint. The rise, fall, and redemption arc feels predictable when viewed today, especially after newer Marvel projects have pushed for bolder narratives. Killmonger’s takeover and T’Challa’s return play out in ways that echo older comic book tropes. 

This isn’t to say the plot is weak, but it leans heavily on conventions that feel less fresh now. Audiences craving innovative storytelling might find the structure too safe compared to more experimental films in the genre. 

Aged Masterfully – Chadwick Boseman’s Performance

Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa is nothing short of iconic. He brought a quiet strength, dignity, and vulnerability to the role, making the king of Wakanda feel human yet regal. His scenes, whether commanding a ritual duel or grappling with his father’s legacy, carry an emotional weight that hits just as hard today. 

Boseman’s performance transcends the film’s flaws, anchoring every moment with gravitas. His tragic passing adds a bittersweet layer, but his work here remains a timeless highlight of the Marvel saga. 

Aged Poorly – Underused Supporting Cast

The ensemble in ‘Black Panther’ is stacked with talent, but some characters get shortchanged. Daniel Kaluuya’s W’Kabi and Forest Whitaker’s Zuri have compelling setups but fade into the background. Their roles feel like missed opportunities to deepen the story, especially when compared to later films that give side characters more to do. 

This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it stings on rewatch. With such a strong cast, you can’t help but wish for more moments where these actors could shine, making the world of Wakanda feel even richer. 

Aged Masterfully – Strong Female Characters

The women of ‘Black Panther’—Okoye, Nakia, and Shuri—are a standout, and their impact hasn’t dimmed. Danai Gurira’s fierce Okoye steals scenes with her loyalty and spear-wielding prowess. Lupita Nyong’o’s Nakia brings heart as a spy with a global conscience, and Letitia Wright’s Shuri sparkles as a tech genius. 

These characters aren’t just sidekicks; they drive the story and embody strength in different ways. Their agency and depth set a high bar for female roles in superhero films, and they still feel fresh and inspiring. 

Aged Poorly – Simplistic Villain Motivations

Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger is magnetic, but his plan to arm the world with vibranium feels overly straightforward today. His rage and pain are compelling, but the script leans on a one-note revenge motive that lacks the complexity of later Marvel antagonists like Thanos in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018). 

On rewatch, you want more layers to his vision. The film hints at his trauma but doesn’t fully explore it, making his arc feel less nuanced than it could have been. 

Aged Masterfully – Afrofuturist Worldbuilding

Wakanda itself is a triumph that holds up beautifully. The blend of advanced technology and African traditions creates a vivid, believable nation. From the bustling markets to the sleek labs, every detail—from costumes to Xhosa-inspired dialogue—feels authentic and immersive. 

This worldbuilding set a new standard for fantasy in film. It’s still a joy to explore Wakanda’s landscapes and culture, which remain as captivating and unique as ever. 

Aged Poorly – Dated Tech References

The film’s tech, like Shuri’s gadgets, was cutting-edge in 2018, but some elements now feel quaint. Holographic displays and remote-controlled cars were cool then, but today’s real-world tech has caught up fast. Scenes where characters rely on physical devices can seem out of step with our cloud-driven reality. 

It’s a small nitpick, but these moments remind you of the film’s age. The tech was meant to dazzle, but it doesn’t always feel as futuristic now. 

Aged Masterfully – Emotional Depth

‘Black Panther’ tackles heavy themes—identity, duty, and legacy—with a sincerity that still resonates. T’Challa’s struggle to honor his father while forging his own path feels universal. Killmonger’s pain, tied to abandonment and systemic injustice, adds a layer of real-world relevance that keeps the story grounded. 

These emotional beats hit hard because they’re timeless. The film’s ability to weave personal and political struggles into a superhero tale makes it as moving today as it was on release. 

What’s your take on ‘Black Panther’—which moments still wow you, or what feels off now? Drop your thoughts in the comments!