Where to watch Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
2 1/2 Stars
Plot unknown. Sequel to the 2018 film ‘Aquaman.’
The Aquaman cinema series, under the direction of James Wan, is the most visually spectacular of all the DCU movies. Aquaman and this sequel’s unique appeal is the abundance of hyper-day-glow environments and fantastical creatures. Jason Moma’s enthusiasm for the title role is still infectious, and his actorly charisma keeps this follow-up film from being a forgettable dud. Without a formidable villain, a superhero movie is moot. Black Manta, dressed in a laughable costume, in the previous film was handled with care and given a sympathetic edge, which makes him a tragic character. His motivation for the terrible actions in the sequel is routine, making the Black Manta far less interesting; instead, he becomes another plug-in ‘bad guy’.
Recent news of Warner Bros. overhauling the DCU comes without mention of Moma continuing the series or appearing as Aquaman in future projects. Of all the missteps made by the creative forces behind the DCU, casting Jason Moma was the best decision they made collectively. Throughout the two movies, Moma has turned a cartoon character into a memorable screen hero; he will be difficult to replace if they decide to. So it’s unfortunate that his, possibly, last appearance as the half-breen Atlantean comes in a film that feels rushed and an afterthought to what this same creative team had given us just a few years prior.
Directed by: James Wan
Written by: David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, James Wan, Jason Momoa
Starring: Jason Momoa, Patrick Wilson, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II