Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was one of the most highly anticipated movies of 2022, and now that the dust has settled, many have seen the impact of the world of Wakanda once again. The film hit a wide range of emotions while leaving a welcomed surprise during the post-credits scene, which cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw described as "one of the most beautiful endings."
The Black Panther character was retired from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) due to the unfortunate passing of Chadwick Boseman. Director Ryan Coogler once again managed to deliver a phenomenal film despite all the outside occurrences working against him. Coogler solidified himself as an incredible storyteller, and many are rallying for him to direct Avengers: Secret Wars. Coogler worked closely with his cast and crew, including the director of photography Durald Arkapaw.
Durald Arkapaw spoke with The Hollywood Reporter on the impact of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and being responsible for capturing the powerful performances of all the talent on screen, specifically with the final scene of Shuri (Letitia Wright) meeting T'Challa's family on the beach. “Their performance is so sensitive and beautiful. That’s one of the most impactful things I’ve ever shot, as far as everything timing out to be so beautiful and natural," Durald Arkapaw said. "And on a beach in Puerto Rico, where we’re watching the sunset right behind her."
The final Black Panther: Wakanda Forever scene was one of the most tear-jerking moments in the film due to its quiet and steady pacing. Arkapaw adds, “It encapsulates what this movie is. It’s about family, and it’s about rebirth. It’s about trying to let go of grief, but it does stay with you, and sometimes you have to carry it with you, and you’re reminded of it. It’s one of the most beautiful endings I think I’ve seen.” It also set in place the future of the character T'Challa without replacing Chadwick Boseman in a way that was meant to satisfy everyone.
Regardless of where Marvel Studios ends up going, T'Challa means so much to many people. The character should be brought back in some form, whether it's through his son, an alternate universe, or even in other projects. The impact of the character and the world of Wakanda hits close to home for so many voices. The fact that Black Panther: Wakanda Forever has one of the top 5 Marvel movie moments in 2022 is proof the character's legacy shouldn't end with this movie.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is set to release on Disney Plus on February 1st, 2023.
Source: Hollywood Reporter