More than just a superhero movie: MPS students see private showing of 'Black Panther'
MPS students see "Black Panther"
MILWAUKEE -- It's the hottest movie out right now: "Black Panther," and 200 Milwaukee Public Schools' students had their own private screening on Thursday, March 8. The school worked closely with city officials to make the day at the movies possible.
"I like never watched a superhero movie before in my life," said Washington High School senior, Greg Ikanih. "This is actually my first one."
Thursday morning, 200 MPS students got a private showing as part of an MPS initiative to empower young men with positive role models.
MPS students see "Black Panther"
Khalif Rainey
"A lot of times when we have a motion picture experience it portrays us as criminals, it portrays us as thugs. This particular film it presented a different dynamic," said Milwaukee Alderman Khalif Rainey.
City officials and MPS say, they wanted students to see a superhero who looks just like them. When the credits ended and the lights turned on, they started a discussion.
Everyone discussed the finer points of the film. A black superhero, the history of colonialism, lack of positive role models and overcoming obstacles.
MPS students see "Black Panther"
Jordan Dinsmore
"For the younger kids to be as good as they can be I feel like they need the older support systems to help guide them through the way," said Jordan Dinsmore, Washington High School senior.
Several students say after seeing the film, it made them want to become mentors for other kids. Leaving a better path for those who follow in their footsteps.
"It was really good just to be able to sit and interact with different kids from different schools," Dinsmore said.
Whether a superhero fan, the students think it has a message everyone can get behind.
"No, actually I really liked it. I hope they make a part two for the movie because I'm actually looking forward to it," said Ikanih.
FOX6 asked Alderman Rainey, how the school was able to afford a day like this. He says no city, or public money was used for the field trip. Instead, they had a lot of private donors give to make it possible.
MPS students see "Black Panther"