“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” (2023)

Action

Running Time: 124 minutes

Written by: David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick

Directed by: James Wan

Featuring: Jason Momoa, Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Nicole Kidman

Arthur Curry: “I don’t know what lies ahead. But we can’t leave our children in a world without hope.”

With the trident poised to pierce the waves once more, Aquaman 2, titled “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” churns on the horizon, promising depths yet unplumbed in the aquatic realm. While the embargo on official reviews remains steadfast until tomorrow, we can dive into the bubbling anticipation by dissecting the available trailers, whispers of plot, and the returning creative crew.

Firstly, the familiar faces resurface. Jason Momoa’s Arthur Curry, burdened by both crown and destiny, navigates the treacherous currents of leadership, balancing the mantle of Aquaman with the complexities of human-Atlantean relations. Amber Heard’s Mera, his fiery queen and formidable warrior, stands by his side, their bond tempered by trials past and likely forged anew in the face of unknown perils. Patrick Wilson’s vengeful Orm, Arthur’s half-brother, casts a menacing shadow, hinting at unresolved conflicts and perhaps even an uneasy alliance against a greater threat.

Director James Wan, the architect of the 2018 Aquaman’s vibrant spectacle, returns to helm the sequel. We can expect his signature blend of fantastical world-building, pulse-pounding action sequences, and a dash of campy humor to once again paint the underwater canvas with awe-inspiring detail. Trailers brim with glimpses of monstrous sea creatures, gravity-defying underwater metropolises, and breathtaking action that seamlessly blends CGI wizardry with practical stunts. One scene showcases Arthur riding a colossal seahorse – a visual feast that captures the boundless imagination of the Aquaman universe.

Whispers of the plot suggest a quest for a legendary power hidden within the darkest corners of the ocean. This pursuit may pit Arthur against not only familiar foes but also ancient guardians and mythical beasts jealously guarding their domain. Themes of environmental stewardship, the fragile balance of power between land and sea, and the burden of leadership seem to surface from the depths, promising a story with both epic scope and personal resonance.

The return of Orm, Arthur’s ostracized brother, presents a fascinating wrinkle in the narrative tapestry. Will he remain a vengeful foil, fueled by the loss of his throne and the death of his father? Or could he, faced with an even greater threat, begrudgingly join forces with his brother, forging a fragile alliance born of necessity? This potential shift in dynamics, from bitter rivals to uneasy allies, holds the promise of complex character development and thrilling on-screen chemistry between Momoa and Wilson.

Beyond the personal, the trailers seem to hint at a larger conflict – a battle for an ancient power capable of tipping the scales between land and sea. This potent McGuffin introduces the potential for environmental themes to take centre stage. Will Arthur champion the delicate balance between the two worlds, or will he be forced to choose between the land he once called home and the underwater kingdom he now leads? This exploration of ecological responsibility and the consequences of unchecked power adds a layer of thematic depth that could elevate the film beyond mere spectacle.

Speaking of spectacle, Wan’s penchant for grandiose visuals and exhilarating action sequences is on full display in the trailers. From gravity-defying underwater manoeuvres to clashes with colossal sea creatures, Aquaman 2 promises to be a feast for the eyes. The glimpses of the “Lost Kingdom” itself, shimmering with alien architecture and bioluminescent life, suggest a further expansion of the already vibrant Atlantean universe. Wan’s ability to seamlessly blend practical effects with CGI magic could once again create a world that feels both fantastical and believable, immersing viewers in the wonders and dangers of the deep.

However, questions linger beneath the surface. Will the plot manage to juggle spectacle with character development, ensuring emotional stakes beyond the dazzling visuals? Can the film balance its environmental message with the inherent escapism of the superhero genre? And will the story manage to avoid retreading the familiar beats of its predecessor, venturing into uncharted territory both narratively and visually?

These are the questions that await answers, but one thing is clear: Aquaman 2, riding on the crest of anticipation and speculation, promises a deep dive into a world of thrilling action, complex characters, and potentially resonant themes. Whether it emerges as a triumphant sequel or simply a visually stunning underwater adventure, the film is poised to make a splash when it hits theatres.