Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
2023 · Directed by James Wan
Original language: English
- action
- adventure
- fantasy
The story
Black Manta seeks revenge on Aquaman for his father's death. Wielding the Black Trident's power, he becomes a formidable foe. To defend Atlantis, Arthur (Aquaman) forges an alliance with his imprisoned brother. They must protect the kingdom.
What it’s like
Bright, saturated underwater color gives way to rust-red deserts and gloomy, ember-lit ruins in this sequel, with James Wan's camera swooping and spinning through fights that stay loud, busy and physical. Sound leans on big orchestral swells, crashing surf and punchy percussion, while the wide-open vistas and sun-baked sand offer a calmer breath between set pieces. The vibe is brash, sun-drenched action-adventure with a grumbling undercurrent of family resentment, the sort of thing that suits a Saturday afternoon on the couch or a loud, easy comfort watch with friends. Pacing is relentless, with action beats piling up and little room to linger, and the emotional register swings between playful bickering and earnest brotherly strain as two estranged half-siblings slowly, grudgingly learn to trust each other. Violence is frequent and cartoonishly kinetic, with stylised explosions and sword and trident clashes that rarely feel gory, though some fights hit with real force and creatures and villains can be menacing. It is best for viewers who want fun, spectacle and a dose of superhero bombast rather than quiet or gentle viewing.
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