Saturday, December 23, 2023

Fresh Take - Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Spoiler-Free Thoughts

 Available in Theaters



Synopsis (from IMDB)


Having failed to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta, still driven by the need to avenge his father's death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all. This time Black Manta is more formidable than ever before, wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident, which unleashes an ancient and malevolent force. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisioned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they must set aside their differences in order to protect their kindgom and save Aquaman's family, and the world, form irreversible destruction.



Thoughts

I enjoyed the first Aquaman and for the most part the majority of the cast is back for this outing. This time we see Arthur trying to balance having a family and being king of Atlantis. I enjoyed the film as I thought that it was a just a fun movie. The CG and other effects were done well and consistent throughout the film. I like the look of the film as some of the designs on the 'old tech' felt like they came straight from the comics. I think the movie shines when it is Orm and Arthur together. It feels like Jason Momoa was just having fun and having Patrick Wilson be the straight man for most of the movie just worked for me. Another thing that I like is the pacing and how James Wan can make you feel worry for the characters. There is a scene much like the Trench scene from the first film and I actually thought for a minute that this may not have a happy ending. There are a few tense moments that I thought were shot really well and felt appropriately intense. Just a small spoiler but for those worried, Amber Heard isn't in the movie that much the bulk of the movie does revolve around Orm, Arthur, and Black Manta. The soundtrack is pretty good as well. 

While I did enjoy the pacing of this movie there were a couple of scenes that I wished were fleshed out a little more. Also, I kind of wanted to know a little more about the black Trident and the main villain. I have a feeling that there is a lot on the cutting room floor as some scenes feel like something was missing.  


For Parents

This movie is rated PG-13 and has a runtime of 2 hours and 4 minutes. The pacing is good and the movie doesn't drag. Something is always happening and it doesn't slow down which actually works in this movie. There is one mid credits scene but it is just a in joke from the movie. The action is pretty good and there are some tense moments but nothing gratuitous. I think its perfect for an afternoon show.

Final Thoughts

I think its perfect for a MATINEE. I think if you liked the first one, you will more than likely enjoy this film as well. While the movie did have some controversy the past couple of years I think that this one wasn't bad and if this is the last movie for the old DCEU its a nice end. I liked how they wrapped everything up. Have you seen Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom? What did you think? Leave a comment and let's talk about it. 

Trailer



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