Ryan Coogler, the writer and director of Black Panther, has shared insights regarding the script for Black Panther 2. This draft was created prior to the passing of Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed T’Challa in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Background on Chadwick Boseman
Chadwick Boseman passed away in August 2020 at the age of 43 due to complications related to colon cancer. This illness had been a private struggle for the actor over four years. His impactful performance as T’Challa was first introduced in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War and continued through Avengers: Endgame in 2019.
The Original Black Panther 2 Script
Coogler confirmed that he completed a 180-page draft of Black Panther 2 before Boseman became too ill to participate. He aimed for Boseman to read it but was informed that he was unable to do so because of his health.
Key Elements of the Script
The plot of Black Panther 2 was set to involve T’Challa’s return from a five-year absence following the Blip, a pivotal event in the Marvel storyline. He would reconnect with his son, Toussaint, who had little knowledge of his father’s legacy.
- The script included an animated opening sequence featuring Nakia, T’Challa’s love interest. She discusses T’Challa’s identity with Toussaint.
- It depicted scenes of T’Challa rediscovering fatherhood while co-parenting with Nakia, who had remarried.
- One significant event was a ritual called the “Ritual of Eight,” where T’Challa and Toussaint would spend eight days in the bush.
Ritual of Eight
During this ritual, the prince would have been required to spend time in nature with T’Challa without any tools. As per the ritual, Toussaint could ask his father any question during this time. However, the ongoing threat posed by Namor would have created dramatic tension.
Impact of Boseman’s Passing
Following Boseman’s death, Coogler reworked the sequel to focus on Shuri, T’Challa’s sister. The new narrative embraced themes of grief while continuing the legacy of the Black Panther character.
Future Projects
Coogler confirmed plans for Black Panther 3, indicating that he wants to tell captivating stories rather than prove himself as a filmmaker. This sequel is anticipated but will follow his work on an X-Files revival.
Coogler expressed his deep connection with Boseman and the profound influence the actor had on his life and career. He acknowledged the emotional weight of creating a sequel without Boseman.
Conclusion
Ryan Coogler’s revelations about the Black Panther 2 script highlight the transformative storytelling possible within the Marvel universe. The legacy of Chadwick Boseman continues to shape the future of the franchise.
