Following numerous setbacks stemming from pandemic-related disruptions and the tumultuous Warner Bros.-Discovery merger, the highly anticipated release of “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” finally made its way to theaters. Positioned as a sequel set a few years after its predecessor, the film plunges audiences back into the underwater realm, where Arthur Curry, aka Aquaman, finds himself embroiled in a perilous quest alongside his once-villainous brother, Orm. Their mission? To thwart the resurgence of their arch-nemesis, Black Manta, who wields the formidable power of the cursed Black Trident and threatens to dismantle everything Arthur holds dear.
Now, let’s delve into what lies ahead for the DC Universe post-“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom”:
Canonical Status and Continuity Shifts: James Gunn, the visionary behind the upcoming DC projects, has delineated a clear demarcation in continuity. Anything predating the release of “Creature Commandos” is effectively rendered non-canonical in Gunn’s reimagined DC Universe. Notably, the sequel to “Aquaman” makes a deliberate move to sever ties with Batman, a character poised to be portrayed by either Ben Affleck or Michael Keaton. With the absence of the Dark Knight, the narrative canvas is cleansed of any lingering threads, signaling a fresh start for the franchise. Moreover, the decision to exclude actors from Zack Snyder’s DCEU films, including the iconic portrayal by Jason Momoa, underscores the studio’s commitment to forging a new path, unencumbered by past iterations. For fans, this marks a definitive conclusion to Momoa’s tenure as Aquaman within this cinematic universe.
Prospects for Aquaman’s Future: Despite the astronomical success of the initial “Aquaman” installment, the reception to its sequel prompts speculation regarding the character’s trajectory within the broader DC landscape. Questions loom regarding the necessity of a standalone Aquaman film or television series in the absence of Momoa’s charismatic presence. The prospect of recasting Aquaman for Gunn’s cinematic universe remains uncertain, leaving the character’s future in limbo.
Upcoming Projects and Diversification of Narratives: Looking beyond the aquatic adventures of Aquaman, DC enthusiasts can anticipate a diverse array of projects poised to captivate audiences. From the exploration of Superman’s legacy to the enigmatic exploits of The Authority, and the dynamic team-ups of The Brave and the Bold, DC’s upcoming slate promises a tapestry of compelling narratives. Additionally, projects like “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “The Penguin” offer intriguing forays into standalone stories, each cultivating distinct universes that diverge from the established DC timeline. These “Elseworlds” ventures not only showcase the versatility of the DC multiverse but also provide a refreshing departure from the traditional interconnected storytelling prevalent in superhero cinema.
In essence, while “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” may serve as a swan song for Momoa’s portrayal of the aquatic hero within the confines of the DCEU, the broader DC Universe teems with possibilities and awaits exploration across a myriad of captivating narratives. As the cinematic landscape continues to evolve, fans can eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of their favorite superheroes, both familiar and new, as they navigate uncharted waters in the realm of cinematic storytelling.
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Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Aquaman