Release Date: Dec. 21, 2018

Director: James Wan

Starring: Jason Momoa (Aquaman), Amber Heard (Mera), Patrick Wilson (Ocean Master), Nicole Kidman (Atlanna), Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (Black Manta)

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Our Rating: B

The 2018 film Aquaman brings the D.C. comic character to life with the backdrop of some of the best visual effects warner bros. pictures has produced. This sixth installment in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) opens in 1985 when In 1985 lighthouse keeper Thomas Curry rescues Atlanna, the princess of the underwater world of Atlantis. They fall in love and have a son named Arthur, who will grow up to become the famous Aquaman.  When Atlantis is conquered by a power-hungry tyrant, Orm, who aims to control the oceanic people and eventually the surface world, only Aquaman can stand in his way.  With help from trusted counselor Vulko, Aquaman sets off to find the legendary Trident of Atlan saves the underwater world from destruction. 

Aquaman‘s fast-paced action and impressive battles are worth the slow story building it takes to get there. The first half of the movie focuses on a drawn-out love story between Arthur and Mera, an ocean princess and daughter of King Nereus, as they race around the depths of the ocean. Though it is helpful to get to know the characters, it becomes a bit tedious for viewers as the plot moves slowly.  Eventually, all the time spent setting up the action pays off, and battles rage for control of the underwater realm. Titans ride on ferocious sharks, sea creatures rise from the water, and warriors clash. The scenes were vividly generated in a way that is both thrilling and as realistic as possible. Viewers will be captivated by the action scenes, which are lengthy but not so extensive as to cause disinterest. The special effects throughout Aquaman were one of its strongest points and surely worth an Oscar nomination, which it sadly got snubbed from this year.

“The special effects throughout the movie, especially portraying Atlantis, were very impressive,” sophomore Nicolas Cruz said.

The film also benefited greatly from Momoa’s stellar performance as Aquaman. Though his build and curly brown locks are a far cry from the traditional blond-haired cartoon, Momoa embodies everything that the character should be. His sense of humor and wit add to the script and make watching the movie a fun experience. Even faced with tough situations, he maintains his aura of confidence and carefree attitude which leaves watchers rooting for him.

“I thought momoa did a great job as aquaman. He was really fun to watch,”  sophomore Nina Montero said.

Overall, Aquaman was a great installation to the DCEU which will aid the company recover from the 2016 Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice flop. Despite the slow start, Aquaman boasts wildly entertaining fight scenes with breathtaking special effects which will leave you on the edge of your seat. Momoa’s carefree attitude is the final component to a thoroughly entertaining 143-minute film which is a great fit for adults and kids alike.

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