MCU: 12 Things You Learn Rewatching Black Panther

7. The Maglev Train Is A Weird Red Herring

Black Panther Maglev
Marvel Studios

Though the final battle between T'Challa and Killmonger of course takes place amid Shuri's (Letitia Wright) maglev train system, the fight scene isn't really about the train: it's just a cool backdrop for the finale.

The maglev is first introduced when Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) wakes up in Wakanda, and Shuri explains that she uses magnetic levitation technology to transport vibranium around Wakanda. This is aided by the use of sonic stabilisers, which can temporarily deactivate vibranium to make its transportation around the land safer.

From the moment Shuri says this, it feels like the tech is going to have some sort of major purpose later on, perhaps with Killmonger using it to take Wakanda's vibranium stockpile hostage.

As it turns out, it's a total red herring and never referenced again. Sure, it's entirely possible Marvel is playing the long game and the tech will be an important factor in a future movie - either Infinity War or Black Panther 2 - but it's definitely surprising that the potential to deactivate vibranium wasn't further explored.

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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.