The unforgettable story, coupled with the film's mega-success, has undoubtedly shaped the future of superhero cinema, in addition to genuinely changing viewers' lives. Why Wakanda Matters gives this iconic film the in-depth analysis it deserves under the lens of the latest psychological concepts-as well as delving into the lasting cultural impact of this unforgettable story.

Edited by Sheena C. Howard, an award-winning author, filmmaker, and scholar, Why Wakanda Matters: What Black Panther Reveals About Psychology, Identity, and Communication features a collection of essays from leading experts in a variety of fields who offer insightful perspectives on topics such as:

• Cognitive dissonance: The important messages within T'Challa's nuanced identity and eventual shift from nationalism to globalism.
• Intergenerational trauma and resistance: How N'Jadaka (aka Erik/Killmonger) identifies with the trauma that his ancestors have suffered.
• Social identity: How Nakia, Shuri, Okoye, and Ramondaâ??all empowered, intelligent, and assertive women of colorâ??can make a lasting impression on women and girls.
• Collective identity: How Black Panther has created a shared fantasy for Black audience membersâ??and why this is groundbreaking.
• Cultural and racial identity: What we can learn from Black Panther's portrayal of a culture virtually untouched by white supremacy.