Ryan Coogler Sent Black Panther Fans The Sweetest Thank You Note

Soon after a starting weekend of historic proportions, Black Panther director Ryan Coogler feels nothing nevertheless gratitude.


In a note posted to the Marvel Studios Twitter account on Tuesday (February 20), Coogler thanked all the people who supported the film leading up to and through its release.


"Never in a million years did we imagine that you all would come out this strong," he wrote. "It still humbles me to think that people care enough to spend their cash and time watching our film- Nevertheless to be able to see people of all backgrounds wearing clothing that celebrates their heritage, taking photographs next to our posters with their companions and family member, and some days dancing in the lobbies of theaters- often moved me and my partner to tears."


Shattering expectations, Black Panther brought in roughly $242 million in the U.S. And $427 million worldwide while in its four-day weekend debut. It broke the record Deadpool set in 2016 for biggest President's Day weekend starting, and was the second-highest three-day domestic first in Marvel film history, just trailing the first Avengers film.


naturally, before the movie even hit theaters, support for the film was rampant. Celebrities like Brie Larson, Serena Williams, and Octavia Spencer helped kids across the nation visualize the movie by buying out screenings, while fellow Marvel heroes tweeted their support during starting weekend.

Really, it's no wonder Coogler was feeling emotional right following the monumental weekend. Read his note, in full, below.

I am struggling to find the words to express my gratitude at this moment, although I'll try.



Filmmaking is a team sport. And our team was made up astonishing people from all over the world who considered in this story. Deep down we all hoped that people would come to be able to see a film about a fictional nation on the continent of Africa, made up of a cast 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 cash and time watching our film- Nevertheless to be able to see people of all backgrounds wearing clothing that celebrates their heritage, taking photos next to our posters with their companions and family member, and some days dancing in the lobbies of theaters- often moved me and my partner to tears.



For the people who purchased out theaters, who posted on social about how lit the film could 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 folks who hadn't although seen it, and encouraged crowds 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 possibility to share this film, that we poured our hearts and souls into, with you.



Sincerely,



Ryan Coogler



P.S. Wakanda Forever