‘Black Panther’ not just a movie, but ‘a cultural movement’

New College of Florida’s Black Student Union members to attend Sarasota screening

SARASOTA — When “Black Panther” hits theaters this weekend, it won’t just be another superhero blockbuster for much of its audience.
The film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name will be the biggest-ever superhero movie with a predominantly black cast and a black director. It’s already proven a national phenomenon, breaking records for pre-ticket sales and projecting a massive $170 million opening weekend box office, according to Variety.
The hashtag #WhatBlackPantherMeanstoMe has fans describing the impact of the movie’s representation on them, while the #BlackPantherChallenge campaign is raising money to send children to the film.
New College of Florida’s Black Student Union members will attend a Friday screening of “Black Panther,” with 40 tickets paid for by the New College Foundation, said BSU president Paul Loriston. It’s one of several Black History Month events at the college, with this year’s theme being Black Joy.