Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom: A Dive into Atlantis’ Darkest Secrets
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023) marks the return of Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry in the highly anticipated sequel to DC's 2018 hit Aquaman. Directed once again by James Wan, the film plunges audiences back into the vibrant and perilous world of Atlantis, blending high-stakes action, fantasy spectacle, and emotional depth. As the final entry in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), the film carries the weight of legacy while pushing the franchise's boundaries.
The plot of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom follows Arthur Curry as he struggles to balance his duties as King of Atlantis with his responsibilities as a husband and father. However, peace is soon shattered when an ancient evil awakens — the Black Trident, a dark artifact tied to a long-forgotten realm. This powerful weapon falls into the hands of David Kane, aka Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), who seeks revenge for his father's death and vows to destroy everything Arthur holds dear. To stop him, Aquaman is forced into an uneasy alliance with his imprisoned half-brother Orm (Patrick Wilson), the former King of Atlantis.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its world-building. James Wan deepens the mythology of Atlantis and expands the underwater universe by introducing the titular Lost Kingdom of Necrus, a mysterious realm once banished from Atlantean history. The visuals are stunning, with impressive CGI that brings to life otherworldly sea creatures, epic battle sequences, and bioluminescent underwater cities. Despite some tonal shifts, the film maintains a consistent pace, blending humor, family drama, and environmental allegory.
Jason Momoa delivers another charismatic performance as Aquaman, adding layers of vulnerability and maturity to his character. His chemistry with Patrick Wilson is a highlight, as their sibling rivalry evolves into reluctant camaraderie. Amber Heard reprises her role as Mera, though her screen time is reduced, leading to criticism from some fans. Nicole Kidman returns as Atlanna, providing regal gravitas and emotional resonance. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II shines as the vengeful Black Manta, portraying a villain driven by grief, rage, and an almost tragic obsession.
However, the film is not without flaws. Its story can feel overloaded with subplots and mythological exposition, occasionally slowing the momentum. Some critics argue that the emotional beats are underdeveloped and that the environmental themes, while noble, are too on-the-nose. Additionally, as the last chapter of the DCEU, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom struggles with the lack of a larger connective thread, making it feel somewhat isolated from the rest of the franchise.
Despite these shortcomings, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom offers a visually dazzling and action-packed adventure that concludes Arthur Curry’s journey on a satisfying note. It balances personal stakes with epic fantasy, giving fans a proper farewell to one of the DCEU’s most successful heroes. With heartfelt performances, impressive visuals, and imaginative world-building, the film remains a standout in the superhero genre — even if it doesn't fully escape the weight of expectations. Whether it’s truly the end for Momoa’s Aquaman remains to be seen, but if so, he exits with trident held high.
