Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom: Momoa’s last stand in Atlantis (trailer).
Hold onto your tridents, because Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is making a splash in theaters soon, and it’s shaping up to be an underwater adventure of epic proportions. Directed by James Wan, this sequel to Aquaman (2018) is not just a deep dive into the aquatic world, but also the 15th and final installment in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). That’s right, folks, it’s the grand finale, and Jason Momoa’s Aquaman is ready to ride the wave one last time.
This watery sequel, which stars Momoa alongside a star-studded cast including Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, and Nicole Kidman, was born from Momoa’s own pitch during the production of the first film. James Wan, known for his cinematic magic touch, didn’t want to rush into a sequel, but the lure of the ocean depths was too strong to resist. By 2020, he was confirmed to be returning as the director, ready to expand on the world-building of Atlantis and its seven underwater kingdoms.
The premise of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom finds our hero several years after the events of the first film, facing off against an ancient power unleashed by David Kane / Black Manta, who’s gotten his hands on the cursed Black Trident. Arthur Curry, aka Aquaman, must not only protect Atlantis and his loved ones but also team up with his brother Orm. Talk about awkward family reunions.
Filming for this aquatic epic began in late June 2021 and concluded in January 2022, spanning across the United Kingdom, Hawaii, Los Angeles, and New Jersey, with some additional shots in New Zealand. So, you can bet your last sand dollar that the scenery is going to be as stunning as Momoa’s flowing locks.
Scheduled to be released in the United States on December 22, 2023, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom promises to be a tidal wave of action, drama, and brotherly bonding. And let’s not forget the return of all the fan favorites, including Mera, the Queen of Atlantis; Orm Marius, the former king of Atlantis; and of course, the formidable Atlanna, Arthur and Orm’s mother.
With Wan’s commitment to serious themes and a touch of horror, combined with the sequel’s focus on Arthur’s relationship with Orm, we’re in for a deep-sea ride that’s likely to be both thrilling and emotionally resonant. It’s like a family drama, but with more tridents and underwater kingdoms.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. The production faced its share of choppy waters, including rumors surrounding Amber Heard’s role as Mera, and scheduling conflicts that led to Willem Dafoe’s absence. Yet, through it all, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom has navigated its course, bringing together a blend of action, heart, and a bit of sibling rivalry.
As we prepare to bid farewell to the DCEU, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom looks set to be a fitting swan song for this chapter of DC’s cinematic universe. So grab your scuba gear, because come December, we’re all diving back into the world of Atlantis for one final, breathtaking adventure.
