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Marvel Studios has plenty of films in various stages of development, and one of the most anticipated would easily be Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The sequel to the acclaimed 2018 Marvel movie has certainly experienced its share of alterations but, now, production has finally commenced in Atlanta. While the changes in front of the camera are more than evident, there will also be some changes behind it. This was clear through the latest bit of progress that was made by the production.
The Black Panther franchise will be bringing on a new cinematographer in the form of Autumn Durald, according to Discussing Film. Durald will succeed writer-director Ryan Coogler’s longtime collaborator Rachel Morrison. While this will be Durald’s first entry into the world of Wakanda, this won’t be her first venture with Marvel Studios, as she served as cinematographer on all six episodes of Disney+’s Loki. Additionally, Durald has worked on films like The Sun is Also a Star, Beastie Boys Story and Mainstream.
One of the best aspects of Black Panther was the film’s beautiful look, which Rachel Morrison skillfully managed to capture. The Oscar-nominated cinematographer truly brought something unique to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and was poised to do the same with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. However, due to the COVID-related delay of her upcoming film Flint Strong, Morrison was unable to return to work with Ryan Coogler and co. once more.
While it’s unfortunate that Rachel Morrison was unable to return, the Black Panther sequel should be in good hands under Autumn Durald. Loki has proven to have one of the most distinct looks of any Marvel production, and one can only imagine how Durald plans to bring her sensibilities to Black Panther’s corner of the MCU. I don’t know about all of you, but I’m excited just thinking about it. To get an idea of what Durald might do, stream Loki on Disney+, which you can sign up for using this link.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever could go down as one of the most physically and emotionally challenging projects Marvel Studios has ever attempted. This is mostly due to the untimely passing of lead actor Chadwick Boseman. Ryan Coogler has been candid about carrying on without his collaborator, and Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige also reflected on the actor’s legacy as production kicked off.
But even in the midst of the unfortunate circumstances, it sounds like Ryan Coogler has found a way to both continue the story and pay tribute to his late star. The returning Lupita Nyong’o has had nothing but praise for Coogler’s vision, with co-star Martin Freeman echoing satisfaction with the story.
We’ll see what Ryan Coogler, Autumn Durald and their team have in store when Black Panther: Wakanda Forever hits theaters on July 8, 2022.
