MCU: 12 Things You Learn Rewatching Black Panther

8. Forest Whitaker Was Totally Wasted

Black Panther Zuri Forest Whitaker
Marvel Studios

Ahead of Black Panther's release, Forest Whitaker referred to his character, Zuri, as "Black Panther's version of Obi-Wan Kenobi", which naturally got fans excited that he'd have a significant, memorable role in the movie.

While Zuri as a character is instrumental to a point - presiding over distribution of the heart-shaped herb and witnessing N'Jobu's (Sterling K. Brown) death - Whitaker's part is both small and fairly forgettable.

He's not really much more than a generic sage character, spouting exposition when necessary and that's about it. Even his death is so hilariously inevitable it can't muster much emotion. It's a shame, as Whitaker certainly looks the part, and an actor of his calibre deserved a far more nuanced character to work with.

Advertisement
Contributor
Contributor

Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.