On November 11 Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was released to the theaters. This action-packed, long-awaited film was a beautiful way of giving the late actor and producer Chadwick Boseman the recognition and tribute he most righteously deserves. This new sequel follows the beloved characters through a new world, one without the support of the Black Panther. This existence deems to be extremely difficult for the lead, Shuri, played by Letitia Wright, but the audience watches a journey of mourning, challenge, and acceptance as well as finding oneself outside of another’s perception. 

In 2020, Boseman passed away due to a private battle against colon cancer. The actor’s portrayal of the Marvel superhero Black Panther in 2018’s Black Panther was his best-known role and left many heartbroken. This shook both those who knew him and his millions of fans worldwide. With the delay in production, due to the pandemic, the sequel was only able to come out this year. Nevertheless the movie is a full emotional tribute and remembrance to his passing. The film does an incredible job at taking a step away from the expected consistency of action-packed scenes that Marvel often produces and instead makes sure to take time really looking into the slower moments. Director Ryan Coogler and other creators honor Boseman in their own way, revealing emotions in the storyline of the film. The funeral scene created at the beginning was full of mourning but also the celebration of an incredible life. The time that it takes to show the entirety is purposeful, slowing down the speed for a time of reflection and acceptance.

Leading up to the movie’s release the cast continued to show their undeniable support and love of the late actor, paying homage to Boseman in their own ways. At the premier of the film, Wright, Boseman’s co-star, wore an outfit in remembrance of Boseman’s former look at the 2018 Academy Awards. As well as the fashion choices, the film also sponsors and supports the Chadwick Boseman Foundation of The Arts, an organization started by Boseman, supporting the spiritual and artist growth among the black community and its storytellers. As well as taking the time within the movie to give remembrance, the famous Marvel logo at the opening of the film changes. Instead of the usual glimpse into the abundant number of superheroes within the marvel universe, it shares memories of Chadwick, on and off screen. It is able to give the true message of how much he was loved by those around him and the impact he had and still has. This film truly highlights the grief that so many have felt for the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman and does an extraordinary job at giving another way for his legacy to live on.