My quick rating - 6.2/10. I never read this particular comic but it appears that Aquaman only had one enemy since Mantis is back. See what happens when you don't heed the warnings about global warming? You end up thawing out ancient evils that were meant to be frozen forever. In case you are wondering, climate change is massively the underlying message this movie is pushing. If you don't pick that up along the way, they literally smack you in the face with it in the end. This Aquaman sequel continues the underwater adventures of Arthur Curry (Aquaman), played again by Jason Momoa, as he faces a formidable foe in the vengeful Black Manta, portrayed by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II. The film explores themes of revenge, family bonds, and environmental consciousness, delivering a mixed but visually stunning experience. One of the flix undeniable strengths lies in its breathtaking underwater visuals. Director James Wan skillfully immerses the audience in the mythical world of Atlantis, showcasing vibrant marine life, intricate cityscapes, and epic underwater battles. The CGI is top-notch, creating a visually captivating spectacle that enhances the overall experience.
The supporting cast, including Amber Heard as Mera and Patrick Wilson as Orm to just name a few, provide solid performances, contributing to the film's overall appeal. The chemistry between the characters helps maintain the sense of camaraderie established in the first installment. However, it struggles to recapture the freshness and excitement of its predecessor. The storyline, driven by Black Manta's relentless pursuit of revenge, feels somewhat formulaic and lacks the depth seen in the first film. While Abdul-Mateen II gives a solid performance, the character's motivations may leave some viewers craving a more nuanced narrative. To elevate the stakes, Aquaman is forced to form an uneasy alliance with his imprisoned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis. This twist adds a layer of complexity to the plot and allows for the exploration of familial ties and redemption. Wilson delivers a convincing performance, portraying Orm's internal struggle with depth. Finally, we have the massive climate change agenda. The film attempts to highlight environmental issues, drawing attention to the consequences of human actions on the underwater world. While the message is commendable, some might find the execution a bit heavy-handed, leading to occasional breaks in the overall flow. I found the flick to be an entertaining addition to the DC Extended Universe with its mesmerizing underwater visuals and strong supporting cast, but the message about environmental responsibility was just a bit much. While the film falls short of the high bar set by its predecessor, it remains an enjoyable ride for us fans of the superhero genre.
Here are your streamers offering this one now at $20 rent, $13 to buy (2.27.24)
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