There’s real zing in the tale

into their country, amid fears they will “bring their issues with them” and ruin their way of life (does that sound familiar?).

And hearing white people scathingly labelled “colonisers” is a potent touch as well.

As an action hero, Boseman is a bit of an unlikely fit, but in this particular role his measured, soft voice gives the air of total confidence and assurance, an understated hero who has little to fear and nothing to prove.

Conversely, the Wakandan warrior class are all female, led by General Okoye (Danai Gurira), who is all ferocity and strength, an excellent balance to T’Challa.

T’Challa’s sister Shuri (Letitia Wright) adds another fun dimension as a young princess with a brilliant scientific mind who embraces modern culture. And Lupita Nyong’o rounds out the excellent female-dominated cast as Nakia, T’Challa’s love interest from a neighbouring tribe.

Andy Serkis (who seems to look completely different in every role he plays) is wonderful as the swaggering and utterly insane Klaue, and Jordan’s Erik is impossible not to like, making him a wonderfully engaging antagonist.

Black Panther is a bit different from the other Marvel movies around it, but that’s a good thing.

Directed by Ryan Coogler — who directed Creed, a movie I hated and the rest of the world loved — Black Panther is proof that there is still enough wiggle room in this carefully controlled series of movies for them to still show some individuality and social awareness.

(M) is now showing at Village Cinemas and Cmax. Rating: