‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ works as thrilling adventure, visual wonder and worthy tribute

Shuri (Letitia Wright) is raging with grief over the loss of her brother, T’Challa, in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” (Marvel Studios)

The “Black Panther” franchise lives. Long may she thrive.

After the phenomenal success of Ryan Coogler’s “Black Panther” in 2018 — the seven Oscar nominations, including one for best picture; the worldwide gross of some $1.346 billion; the nearly universal critical acclaim — there was great anticipation and huge pressure for the sequel to match or even top the original. But with Coogler again telling the story and the magnetic Chadwick Boseman carrying the day as the title character, it certainly seemed possible.