Black Panther Director Writes Emotional Thank You To Fans

While Marvel is not in business of making movie flops, the huge commercial success of Black Panther has surpassed many expectations. The movie made $202 million in its opening weekend, setting a new record for a film released in February, and has now made more than DC's Justice League did in its entire run. Director Ryan Coogler has now released an emotional letter thanking fans of their support of the film.

Coogler explains that he never expected audiences to turn out in the volume they have, and stated that the overwhelming response "moved me and my wife to tears." Check out his tweet below:

Cooger writes: "I am struggling to find the words to express my gratitude at this moment but I will try. Filmmaking is a team sport. And our team was made up of amazing people from all over the world who believed in this story. Deep down we all hoped that people would come see a film about a fictional country on the continent of Africa, made up of people of African descent.

"Never in a million years did we imagine that you all would come out this strong. It still humbles me to think that people care enough to spend their money and time watching our film--but to see people of all backgrounds wearing clothing that celebrates their heritage, taking pictures next to our posters with their friends and family, and sometimes dancing in the lobbies of theaters--moved me and my wife to tears.

"For all the people who bought out theaters, who posted on social about how lit the film would be, bragged about our awesome cast, picked out outfits to wear, and who stood in line in theaters all over the world--all before even seeing the film. To the press who wrote about the film for the folks who hadn't seen it, and encouraged audiences to come out.

"And to the young ones who came out with their parents, with their mentors, and with their friends... thank you for giving our team of filmmakers the greatest gift: The opportunity to share this film, that we poured our hearts and souls into, with you."

In related news, Captain American star Chris Evans this week seemed to confirm that the rumored Black Widow movie is in development at Marvel. Evans was asked about the success of Black Panther, and said, "There's nothing they can't do, man," he said. "I'm sure it's going to have the exact same effect when Captain Marvel comes out, and then the Black Widow movie comes out. Marvel just has the winning recipe."

For more Black Panther coverage on GameSpot, check out why the movie succeeds by overcoming Marvel's Iron Man problem.