Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom is the final installment of the DC superhero franchise helmed by director Zack Snyder before the reins were handed over to James Gunn. Despite the success of the first film in 2018, this blockbuster has left many fans skeptical about its potential to become a hit in the competitive film market.
However, Aquaman, portrayed by Jason Momoa, remains a beloved superhero among audiences. Despite various challenges, the film ultimately strives to create a narrative that aligns with the broader development of the DC film universe.
A Family Comedy Adventure
The plot of Aquaman 2 continues the story from the previous film, following Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa) as he embraces his role as the king of Atlantis. He is now married to Mera (Amber Heard) and they have a son. Despite the royal duties that come with their status, the family strives to maintain a peaceful life on land.
In his new role, Arthur finds himself bored with the monotonous duties of leadership, longing for the excitement of adventure that comes with being a superhero. His only joy lies in spending time with his young son.
Meanwhile, David Kane, the villain known as Black Manta, unearths an ancient artifact that grants him immense power, threatening Aquaman and the underwater kingdom. With the newfound strength, he plans to exact revenge on Aquaman.
This adventure leads them across the globe as they seek to reclaim the legendary treasure known as orichalcum, a powerful resource previously used by Atlantis. However, Black Manta is unaware that his ambition is only leading him down a dark path.
Director James Wan continues the successful formula established in the first film, crafting a movie that is both entertaining and engaging for audiences. The storyline of Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom is built around the brotherly conflict between Arthur Curry and Orm (Patrick Wilson), who was a foe in the previous installment. To combat the dark forces threatening Atlantis, they must put aside their differences and collaborate.
This dynamic makes Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom a buddy-cop style film that highlights the contrasting personalities of the two leads as they work together towards a common goal. Both Jason Momoa and Patrick Wilson deliver commendable performances in their respective roles.
The main character continues to embody a carefree and adventurous spirit, bringing forth a charming aura that has garnered praise in Fast X. Meanwhile, Patrick Wilson’s character remains serious, serving as a foil to Aquaman’s more lighthearted nature.
The Aquaman brothers must work together against evil forces.
The visuals and sound design are standout elements of Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom. James Wan demonstrates his expertise in creating visually stunning environments while maintaining a captivating narrative. The film is filled with vibrant scenes that are sure to delight viewers, especially those watching in IMAX or 4DX theaters.
A Safe Bet with a Satisfying Conclusion
While the story is engaging, the plot of Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom may also feel somewhat predictable to some viewers. The film employs familiar tropes that have been used extensively in Hollywood, making it easy for audiences to anticipate certain outcomes. Character development also takes a backseat to the action and comedic elements.
For over two hours, director James Wan provides audiences with a rollercoaster of emotions, balancing thrilling moments with humor. However, the film could have explored various directions more thoroughly. Nonetheless, this remains a significant choice for DC, especially as it is released during the holiday season, appealing to superhero fans and family audiences alike.
The allure of Aquaman as a character is still strong, so there’s no need for excessive hype as the film approaches its release. Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom does not stray far from the formula of previous superhero blockbusters.
Rating: 3.5/5
Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom may not be a groundbreaking superhero blockbuster, but it stands strong in the landscape of DC films. It offers a rich entertainment experience with excellent visuals and sound, ensuring audiences leave satisfied. This film is undoubtedly the best installment in the DC cinematic universe this year, surpassing the quality of titles like Blue Beetle, The Flash, and Shazam! Fury of the Gods.
