A new Black Panther: Wakanda Forever deleted scene just dropped that sees Okoye (Danai Gurira) face down the Dora Milaje.Marvel Studios released the deleted scene on Twitter to coincide with the Black Panther sequel's home media release. In it, Okoye insists on searching for the recently kidnapped Shuri (Letitia Wright), despite this going against the wishes of Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett). Her way is immediately blocked by the Dora Milaje, who demonstrate that their loyalty ultimately lies with the throne and not their general. Okoye prepares to do battle with the Dora Milaje, however, her second-in-command, Ayo (Florence Kasumba), is able to talk her down.
While this scene didn't make Black Panther: Wakanda Forever's theatrical cut, Okoye's leadership of the Dora Milaje is nevertheless a key plot point in the film. By the time the credits roll, Okoye is no longer head of the elite special forces unit, having been stripped of her position by Queen Ramonda before her death. Another Black Panther: Wakanda Forever deleted scene hints at what is in store for Okoye's post-Dora Milaje future, with the formidable warrior seemingly embracing her new Midnight Angel identity.
Black Panther 2 Deleted Scenes Arrive Online
Despite demonstrating her newfound independence in the scene, Okoye ultimately promises Shuri that she will still come to her aid as needed. This tracks with the character's unwavering devotion to Shuri, both in the finished film and in content that didn't make the final cut. Notably, another deleted scene revolves around a conversation between Okoye and her uncle, a Border Tribe elder. Here, Okoye's uncle tries to convince her to challenge Shuri for the throne of Wakanda, an act of betrayal that Okoye refuses to consider.
Not all of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever's deleted scenes focus on Okoye, though. Director Ryan Coogler and editors Michael P. Shawver, Kelley Dixon and Jennifer Lame trimmed a substantial amount of footage from the film, including a subplot designed to develop the friendship between Shuri and Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne). Thorne outlined this unused material in a recent interview, confirming that it would've seen the pair bond while plotting their escape from Talokan. "[They're] sort of siphoning off materials and supplies to rig their own distraction and get out of there. And while they're doing that, just sort of talking about life experiences," she said.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is currently streaming on Disney+ and is also available on Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, and DVD.
Source: Twitter