Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
By Jeff Gibbs
In the realm of the DC Expanded Universe, often criticised for its grim tone, there emerges a beacon of fun and self-awareness embodied in Jason Momoa’s portrayal of Aquaman. “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” takes this charismatic hero on a neon-soaked, submarine-filled sequel adventure, where he grapples with the return of the menacing Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II). Black Manta seeks revenge for the death of his father in the first film, driven by the possession of the Black Trident’s spirit, forged in the enigmatic seventh kingdom of Atlantis, inhabited by demonic creatures.
Jason Momoa, at the pinnacle of his Momoa-esque charm, brings Aquaman to life with a unique blend of alpha-cool swagger and genuine decency. His performance is a rollercoaster of emotions, seamlessly transitioning from wisecracks and running commentary to moments of intense grief and fury. The film introduces a new layer to Aquaman’s character with an infant son, providing heartfelt and humorous moments that resonate with the audience.
Advertisements
The dynamic chemistry between Momoa and co-star Patrick Wilson, reprising his role as Arthur’s half-brother Orm Marius, is a standout element. Wilson’s portrayal of Orm, the Ocean Master, adds depth with a dry and unyielding demeanor. The contrast between Orm’s seriousness and Aquaman’s carefree nature creates a compelling dynamic, allowing Momoa’s Arthur Curry to shine as a lovable, if infuriating, big brother.
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
Director James Wan and screenwriter David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick streamline the narrative, focusing on the banter-filled camaraderie between Arthur and Orm. The film sidesteps prolonged setup, prioritizing the central relationship and avoiding unnecessary diversions for supporting characters from the first film. Approximately two-thirds of the sequel revolves around the “argumentative buddies-on-a-mission” theme, sprinkled with elements of reconciling estranged brothers, redemption, and personal growth.
While “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is undeniably entertaining, it falls short of the grandiosity that defined its predecessor. The original’s melodramatic family dynamics and knowingly ludicrous spectacle are replaced by a cluttered production that occasionally hints at behind-the-scenes chaos. The film’s attempts to condense narrative elements through an opening montage and occasional disarray in the editing room are perceptible.
The movie wears its influences on its sleeve, drawing inspiration from diverse sources like “Star Wars,” Jules Verne, H.P. Lovecraft, Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings,” and the “Matrix” films. The narrative unfolds across a rich tapestry of settings, including a necropolis reminiscent of Mario Bava’s “Planet of the Vampires” and a volcanic island with mutated flora and fauna, paying homage to the imaginative worlds of Ray Harryhausen.
In essence, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is a fun-filled ride led by Jason Momoa’s magnetic performance, complemented by the captivating dynamic between Aquaman and Ocean Master. While it may lack the sheer audacity of its predecessor, the film delivers an enjoyable spectacle that continues to redefine the DCEU’s tone with a refreshing dose of self-awareness.
For more entertainment news, click here.