The grand finale of the DC Universe is upon us with Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom, and I, for one, was expecting a cinematic tsunami but found myself wading through more of a puddle. This review will dive into the depths of the film, so beware of spoilers ahead. If you haven’t watched it yet, bookmark this and return afterward for a detailed discussion.
As the sequel to the highly successful first Aquaman movie, this installment reunites the original cast, including Jason Momoa, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Patrick Wilson, Nicole Kidman, and Amber Heard. James Wan resumes his directorial role, closing the chapter on what has been a decade-long narrative within the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) initiated by the 2013 release of Man of Steel.
The film does have its merits. Jason Momoa continues to bring charisma and enthusiasm to the character of Aquaman, embodying a gruff and burly version that resonates well. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Manta gets more screen time, allowing for a deeper exploration of his character, which adds value to the overall narrative. Randall Park’s Dr. Steven Yun offers a grounded and empathetic perspective, providing relatability amidst the fantastical elements.
The underwater scenes are visually stunning, showcasing intricate details and realistic movements, demonstrating a commendable commitment to visual excellence. Moments of levity, such as Ocean Master’s struggle with running, inject humor and contribute to a generally enjoyable and lighthearted atmosphere.
However, the film is not without its shortcomings. The repetitive trope of mirroring the hero and villain, as seen with Manta, feels unnecessary and cliché. The visual presentation, while impressive in the underwater sequences, falters in certain scenes where CG feels overused, giving the impression of watching an animated movie.
The scale of the film’s events becomes increasingly unrelatable, contributing to a disconnect with the stakes involved. Despite the character’s vast oceanic domain, incorporating more everyday life and relatable elements could have enhanced the overall engagement.
The climax introduces a formidable demon antagonist, only to dispose of them swiftly, leaving the buildup feeling anticlimactic. The environmental angle, while a noble theme, seems tacked on at the end, lacking integration into the broader narrative.
In the end, Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom falls short of expectations. While the action featuring Aquaman and Manta is entertaining, the scenarios and plot execution leave room for improvement. In comparison to other DC releases this year, it stands as the least favorable. The unresolved drama and studio issues surrounding the DCEU have hindered its potential, but with a fresh start on the horizon for DC, there’s hope for a revitalized cinematic universe.
Share your thoughts on Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom in the comments. Did it meet your expectations, or did it sink below them? Let’s discuss.
