First thank you for your considerate reply.

I added the note about potentially being underqualified to review Black is King because I am a white Australian. I still had pretty firm (and, as it turned out, negative) opinions, but preferred to express them with that caveat that not review the film at all. Noting your response, the element that feels like a spanner in the works for me is the Lion King tie-in. For me it ups the cynical commerciality of the film, and defeats a lot of the purpose you note.

hhhmmmm

I have to say for someone who states that he feels “not qualified to critique Black is King”, and yet proceeds to do so anyway, and harshly I might add, you appear to be judging a Beyonce led film negatively because she happens to be wealthier than the Africans she aims to celebrate. Whilst I understand the overall sentiment, it is clear that you are underselling the significance of the album and tie-in movie, for somewhat superficial reasons.

For years afro-artists have covered a space in music that is unbecoming of their talent. So when Beyonce released an album primarily featuring their talents, it was a way for them to be exposed to a wider audience, including black ppl who have lost touch with their heritage. Talented artists such as Burna boy, are now able to have ppl listen, speak, and shed a light on issues that matter in Africa (SARS) whilst showcasing their talents to a wider audience than ever before.

So with all due respect, It is not just a movie attempts to celebrate African heritage, it also attempts to connect those of African descent to a culture they have never known. To that effect, I believe black is king succeeds.