Review by Jon Donnis
Directed by James Wan, "Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom" is released as the 15th and final installment in the DC Extended Universe, marking the sequel to the 2018 hit "Aquaman." Starring Jason Momoa as the titular character, the film navigates the challenges faced by Arthur Curry, now the king of Atlantis, as he attempts to balance his responsibilities on both land and sea.
The film unfolds several years after Arthur's ascent to the throne, revealing a married life with Mera (Amber Heard) and a son, Arthur Jr. The stakes are raised when marine biologist Stephen Shin and the vengeful David Kane / Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) continue their pursuit of Atlantean artifacts, and eventually using a cursed Black Trident leads to a confrontation that could have devastating consequences for both the underwater and surface worlds.
In an effort to prevent catastrophe, and to learn where Kane is hiding, Arthur breaks his half-brother Orm out of prison, portrayed by Patrick Wilson. The two meet with the crime lord Kingfish (Martin Short), who provides information leading to a volcanic island in the South Pacific, they then embark on a mission to uncover the mysteries surrounding the lost seventh kingdom of the seas.
Jason Momoa's charisma remains a standout element in the film, as he brings a compelling blend of strength and charm to the character of Arthur Curry. The actor's commitment to the role is evident, and his enjoyment adds an extra layer to the overall viewing experience.
Despite the entertaining popcorn movie appeal, "Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom" doesn't shy away from criticisms. Some DC fans might feel that the film treads familiar waters, lacking the exploration of new elements in storytelling or character development. Editing issues, possibly influenced by controversies surrounding Amber Heard, are apparent, with key events feeling rushed and impacting the overall flow of the narrative.
Visual effects, a crucial component of superhero films, fall short of expectations, continuing a trend seen in recent DC and Marvel productions. The rushed and subpar visual effects detract from the potential grandeur of the underwater sequences.
In conclusion, "Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom" provides an entertaining underwater adventure led by Jason Momoa's magnetic performance. While it may not break new ground in the superhero genre and faces challenges in editing and visual effects, it remains a recommended watch for those seeking a fun and action-packed cinematic experience. With a fair score of 7.5 out of 10, the film is especially suitable for family audiences looking for an enjoyable ride with the King of Atlantis.
In Cinemas now!
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