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Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom doubles down on the visual insanity of the first Aquaman film and tackles a surprisingly compelling tale with themes of brotherhood, the bond between a father and a son, and what it means to be a leader.
Arthur Curry/Aquaman (Jason Momoa) is trying hard not to buckle under the challenges of being the king of Atlantis, all while juggling being a father to Arthur Jr., a husband to Mera, and a son to Tom Curry and Atlanna. However, his life is turned upside down when Black Manta, vengeance still on his mind, launches a surprise attack that hits Arthur and the ones he loves. Faced with no other option, he decides to turn to the one person he swore never to face again - his brother Orm.
Jason Momoa has never shied away from making it known how much he loves the role of Arthur Curry/Aquaman, and this film simply cements that fact. His infectious energy breaks through the silver screen, making even the most jaded audience member chuckle at his antics. However, when pathos is needed on-screen, Momoa remarkably handles the call to action, showing a glimpse of multi-layered characterization that he can bring to the table given the right script and director.
Patrick Wilson is fantastic in his portrayal of Orm (Arthur's half-brother and former king of Atlantis) in this film, deftly balancing regal pride with a fish-out-of-water clumsiness that undercuts whatever villainous high ground the character had during his first outing. Not to say that Orm is ruined, relegated to a quip machine ala any "reformed" Marvel villain of the MCU; no, his relationship with Arthur excellently highlights the need for balance between being enveloped by duty and the need just to let loose once in a while.
Since the story mainly rests on the shoulders of Momoa and Wilson, the supporting cast is just there to simply dish out exposition or react to plot developments.
Much has been said about whether Amber Heard's role will be diminished or cut out completely, but given all the extracurricular, it's still appreciated that as Mera, she's given a role that isn't as huge a part as she did in the first installment yet doesn't feel out of place in the grand scheme of things in this movie.
However, if this is the way the DCEU as we knew it will end then it's a bit of a lackluster finale to one of the most unique, varied, and certainly interesting eras of modern filmmaking. The DCEU is dead; long live the DC Universe.
All in all, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is a minor miracle, given how tumultuous its production has been (a skyrocketing budget coupled with near-constant reshoots). When compared to The Flash (another troubled DC production), this one is a much better night out at the movies. A propulsive and compelling story brought to life by "game" acting.
Cinegeeks rating : A-
Watch the trailer here :
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