The highly anticipated Black Panther sequel has begun production in Atlanta, as Comic Book details. Marvel head Kevin Feige revealed that filming started earlier this week at Pinewood Studios in Atlanta, Georgia.

Director Ryan Coogler also spoke on his choice to return to Georgia to film the sequel even after political pressure and reactions from the state passing a controversial voting rights bill. A statement released by Coogler confirms his decision to continue shooting in Georgia while also using some of their time to help communities negatively impacted by legislation:

“Our film is staying in Georgia. Additionally, I have made a personal commitment to raise awareness about ways to help overturn this harmful bill, and continue to get educated on this matter from people on the ground. I will encourage everyone working with me to tap in with the local community directly affected by Senate Bill 202 and to leverage their influence and resources to aid in the fight for this particular and essential pillar of democracy.”

Feige also previously confirmed that Marvel Studios would not be recasting Chadwick Boseman’s part for the upcoming sequel after his tragic death and would instead alter their plans. 

Comic Book reports what the Marvel president said on Disney Investor Day in 2020: “I wanted to acknowledge the devastating loss of a dear family and a member of the Marvel Studios family. Chadwick Boseman was an immensely talented actor and an inspirational individual, who affected all of our lives professionally and personally. His portrayal of T’Challa the Black Panther is iconic and transcends any iteration of the character in any other medium from Marvel’s past and it’s for that reason that we will not recast the character. However, to honor the legacy that Chad helped us build through his portrayal of the King of Wakanda, we want to continue to explore the world of Wakanda and all the rich and varied characters introduced in the first film.”

As of now, confirmed cast members have not been announced, but sources point to Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, and Angela Bassett all reprising their parts from the first movie.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is scheduled for release in theaters on July 8, 2022.