This past weekend, cinemas across the world played host to guests dressing up, dancing and singing to usher in the next chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe which features a distinctly celebratory African story.
The film, which has become a cultural phenomenon both at home and across the globe, has been trending for shattering box office records the world over and South Africa is no different.
According to Disney Africa, the film took in over R16.8 million at the South African Box Office with nearly 200k attendances for the 3-day opening weekend 16-18 February 2018.
"This debut ranks as the third biggest industry opening weekend ever in South Africa (and the second biggest industry opening weekend ever, excluding previews) as well as the biggest opening for a Marvel Studios film ever in South Africa. In addition, Black Panther scored the highest Saturday Box Office of all time in South Africa, with takings of over R6.9 million on 17 February," explains the entertainment giant in a statement.
Elsewhere on the continent, Black Panther has become the biggest industry opening weekend of all time in both East and West Africa, with the film continually trending on social media in the run up to the release and over the weekend.
In fact, Lupita Nypong’o (Nakia) and Danai Gurira (Okoye) joined veteran actors Dr. John Kani (King T-Chaka) and Connie Chiume (Mining Tribe Elder) at Monte Casino in Johannesburg this past Friday for the official South African Premiere of Black Panther. You can click here to view some images from the evening which featured a number of South African celebrities on the Wakanda inspired blue carpet - including the likes of Babes Wodumo, Tumi Voster, Masechaba Ndlovu, Rosie Motene and more.
Marvel Studios’ Black Panther follows T’Challa who, after the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king.
But when a powerful old enemy reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king—and Black Panther—is tested when he is drawn into a formidable conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people and their way of life. Marvel Studios’ Black Panther in now in cinemas everywhere.
Main image credit: Supplied - © Walt Disney / Dominic Barnardt