Grief is one of the most universal experiences we face. But it remains deeply personal and unique to each of us. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever takes this shared human experience and weaves it into a deeply emotional and inspiring story. Through the lens of Wakanda, we witness how grief ripples through individuals, families, and an entire community. The film balances themes of love, legacy, and healing, offering viewers an honest portrayal of how loss shapes us.
A Legacy of Strength and Change
The original Black Panther introduced us to King T’Challa—a leader navigating the challenges of tradition, identity, and responsibility. His journey to protect Wakanda while honoring his father’s legacy left an indelible mark on audiences. Yet, as we step into Wakanda Forever, the story shifts to a more personal, heart-wrenching focus: the death of T’Challa.
The loss of T’Challa mirrors the real-life passing of Chadwick Boseman, and the film pays tribute to both the character and the man with grace. From the very first scene, we’re immersed in a world grappling with unimaginable loss. The emotional weight is carried by Queen Ramonda, Shuri, and the people of Wakanda as they navigate the void left behind, each in their own way.
Grief’s Many Faces
Grief is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and Wakanda Forever masterfully shows how it manifests differently for each character.
Queen Ramonda: Leadership Through Loss
For Queen Ramonda, grief is a quiet but relentless companion. As a mother who has lost both her husband and her son, she carries the weight of her sorrow while leading Wakanda through turbulent times. One of the film’s most powerful moments occurs during her address to a global council. Her strength shines through, but so does her pain:
"I am Queen of the most powerful nation in the world, and my entire family is gone!"
Ramonda’s ability to lead while mourning reminds us of the quiet heroism of parents who must keep moving forward, even when their world feels like it’s falling apart. She embodies the resilience many parents display as they balance their grief with the responsibility of caring for others.
Shuri: Battling Grief and Rage
Shuri’s journey is a raw and emotional portrayal of a young woman overwhelmed by loss. At the film’s start, we see her desperate to save T’Challa, only to face the devastating reality of his death. As the story unfolds, Shuri channels her grief into anger—at the world, at her circumstances, and even at herself.
This anger comes to a head in her confrontation with Namor. Blinded by vengeance, she stands on the brink of a decision that could consume her. But in a pivotal moment, she chooses mercy over revenge, guided by her mother’s teachings:
"Vengeance has consumed us. I will not let it consume my people."
Shuri’s choice is a powerful reminder that while grief can lead us down dark paths, it can also teach us to grow, to forgive, and to find peace.
The Ripple Effect: Grief and Relationships
One of the most poignant subplots in Wakanda Forever is the tension between Queen Ramonda and Okoye. When Shuri is captured by Namor, Ramonda’s grief and fear spill over, leading to a painful confrontation.
"I gave everything! And when I lost my son, I said nothing!"
This moment highlights how grief can strain even the closest relationships. It’s a raw depiction of how loss doesn’t just affect individuals—it impacts the dynamics between family, friends, and loved ones.
Healing Through Connection and Legacy
Wakanda Forever is a story about healing. It shows us that while grief never fully disappears, it can transform into something beautiful: a deeper appreciation for the connections we share and the legacies we carry forward.
Shuri’s decision to forgive Namor and embrace her mother’s wisdom is a turning point—not just for her, but for all of Wakanda. It’s a reminder that healing often begins with a single choice: to honor our pain without letting it define us.
Why Stories Like This Matter
Wakanda Forever resonates because it doesn’t shy away from the messiness of grief. It acknowledges the pain, the anger, and the isolation, but it also offers hope. By showing characters who struggle, falter, and ultimately rise, the film reminds us that healing is possible—even in the face of unimaginable loss.
If this exploration of grief and resilience in Wakanda Forever moved you, we invite you to read our reflections on other stories that tackle similar themes, like The Lion King or Coco. These narratives reinforce the idea that even in our darkest moments, there is light to guide us forward.
At Jurni, we’re committed to bringing these themes of grief, healing, and hope to life through our animated short film inspired by our story. If you’d like to support this project, please visit our Kickstarter campaign or learn more on the Jurni website. Together, we can create something meaningful for families navigating their own journeys.