We are days from the Black Panther release, and we should understand something: We may all be familiar with the movie theater experience, but this? This is different. This is special.

Black Panther has already proven itself to be the most anticipated Marvel film ever with its stellar ticket presale numbers, so the official mantra for this upcoming movie experience is stay ready so you don't have to get ready. Whether you'll be attending the midnight showing on Thursday evening or a weekend matinee, Black Panther screenings will be entire events, entire moments.

It's no coincidence the film premieres during Black History Month. As such, we have curated a list of things you'll need to get you into film fan formation and ensure that this movie experience is your blackest ever.

1. Food 

Let's keep it all-the-way-100 straight out the gate. We are not limiting our snacks to the basic and overpriced popcorn and nachos. Yank out that tote bag collecting dust in your closet and put it to good use. What should you fill it with? Whatever your heart's desire! Whether it's the #3 from your favorite chicken shack, soul food, jollof rice or Patti's sweet potato pie, you have two hours to get your grub on and live your best life.

Take a note from this guy.

 2. Squaaaaaad!

It takes a village… to see this film. Assemble your squad accordingly. This is a film that you need to experience with your people. But, you know what, even if you go solo, you'll be among a family of strangers because there's nothing like watching a movie or television show with a bunch of black folks. See Black Twitter.

We're all going to be rolling up to the movie theater like…

3. Wardrobe

Every theater will present a fashion show rivaling the Met Gala! Every social media timeline and feed, WhatsApp messages and Slack threads are filled with some version of "What are you gonna wear??" as you read this. That is, this is not the time to throw on that old jogging suit you've had since high school; you better show up and show out! Expect to see dashikis, black berets (on theme!), couture fits, picked-out afros, furs and the like. This day ain't for the basic.

4. Unwavering Support 

Yes, we're preemptively protective over this film. We're not about to settle for anything less than a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score. So, let's say in a world where pigs fly over Wakanda, the movie ends up being trash: Are we gonna admit that? We'll take "nah" for $500, Alex.

Till our very last breath. https://t.co/6fsB9PPst7— Chrollo Luci. (@K1SouI) December 30, 2017

In that same vein…

5. Clapback for Critics

Try it if you want to. Yes, we know film critics might not provide the same "unwavering support." We get it; it's their job. But, should someone come at the film sideways, keep your witty comeback on standby.

Them: The plot was derivative.

Us: Yo mama derivative!  

6. Get There Early! 

Loves, this is not the moment for Colored People's Time (CPT). Yes, CPT is blacker than a sweet juice berry at its peak, but you cannot sacrifice one second of this film. Our tip: Set your phone's clock back 30 minutes to ensure your punctuality. Think of CPT as the villain, and you must not let it steal your shine. Fight the good fight!

7. Edge Control

You read that right. Scar from The Lion King sang it best—be prepared! For what? For the snatching of your edges. From T'Challa to the Dora Milaje, this film is about to be on a new level of black excellence and beauty. Consider yourself warned.

8. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Black Panther is a marathon, not a sprint. The film is two hours, and you're going to need so much water because the thirst levels will be out of control. Each iconic scene will leave you parched, and no one wants to watch this movie with a dry throat. We need hydration in this dancery!

These are ‌a few ways to help you achieve the blackest movie theater experience. You're welcome! The countdown has begun.

February 16, 2018. It's lit!