Following the sudden loss of Chadwick Boseman to cancer, the actor who played Black Panther, many became curious about how Marvel Studios would handle his character’s sudden disappearance from the films. Over 62,000 people even signed an online petition, calling to recast Boseman in the Marvel Universe. Although a recasting did not take place, I’m sure most will agree that his character’s disappearance in the film was handled with care.

Walking into the theater, I knew beforehand that this movie was going to put me through emotional turmoil, just as every other Marvel movie, but this one truly hit deeper than others. Due to the top-notch actors and actresses who clearly weren’t acting during Black Panther’s funeral scene, my tears came fast.

Something that truly stood out to me throughout this movie was the gorgeous costume work. This wasn’t surprising since Ruth Carter, the costume designer, won an Oscar for her work on the original Black Panther movie, and thank goodness she came back for the sequel. Between Okoye’s Dora Milaje Red Bodysuit, the Wakandan Funeral Attire and everything in between, Carter did a wonderful job combining both modern and traditional wear, something that most action movies lack.

Another thing about most action movies is the fighting choreography repeating itself. It’s considered boring by many at this point, specifically the leg sweeps that knock bad guys to their feet after just one punch. The common fight scene can leave audiences bored and unfazed. This film was anything but that. The fighting scenes are unique, new and original, leaving even me, a hardcore action movie lover, on the edge of my seat.

Cinematography is something I always notice while watching movies, and this has some of my favorite shots, especially when we are shown the underwater town of Talokan. With many glowing lights, unique camera angles and the gorgeous architecture, it left me in awe of the screen in front of me and wishing I could swim right through it.

As someone who has lost a loved one to cancer, I know how hard it is to resume a normal life afterwards. Black Panther’s mother and his sister, Shuri, represent accurate depictions of loved ones after a death. The director, Ryan Coogler, clearly made everything with love for Boseman in his heart, which all in all makes this movie an astonishing 5/5 stars in my book.