what is the exigence of black panther in the opening scenes?
The term "exigence" refers to an issue, problem, or situation that prompts someone to write or speak. In the context of the opening scenes of the 2018 film "Black Panther," directed by Ryan Coogler, the exigence can be related to the narrative setup that propels the story or the motivations and conflicts that drive the characters.
1. Exigence in Narrative Setup:
- The establishment of Wakanda's history: The film opens with a narrative about the fictional African nation of Wakanda, explaining its secretive and technologically advanced nature due to the Vibranium meteorite that struck it long ago. The exigence here is to inform the audience about Wakanda's unique place in the world and to set the stage for the story that will revolve around its protection and challenges.
- The passing of the throne: The death of King T'Chaka, shown in "Captain America: Civil War," necessitates a new ruler for Wakanda. This provides the urgent situation for T'Challa to step up as the new king and Black Panther.
2. Exigence in Characters' Motivations:
- T'Challa's return and assumption of kingship: As the film begins, T'Challa is returning to Wakanda to assume the throne after his father's death, which forms his immediate personal exigence—to take on the responsibility of ruling Wakanda and to maintain its security and isolationist policies.
- Nakia's humanitarian mission: T'Challa's ex-lover Nakia is introduced while on a mission to rescue kidnapped women. Her exigence reflects her humanitarian values and her belief that Wakanda should play a more active role in helping the rest of the world.
3. Exigence in Conflicts:
- The opening scene where T'Challa rescues Nakia from a convoy also sets up the conflict of the Black Panther's role in keeping peace and how Wakanda's resources and abilities could be used (or abused) both domestically and internationally.
Finally, the film also comments on broader social issues such as the role of African nations in the global community, the debate over isolationism versus interventionism, and the struggle of maintaining cultural identity in a changing world, which can be seen as part of the film's rhetorical exigence. This gives the narrative depth that extends beyond the immediate story and connects with audiences' real-world experiences and discussions.