Warner Bros. Discovery is facing challenges with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom as various behind-the-scenes issues have surfaced, according to a new report on the DCEU installment. Despite the upcoming arrival of a new DC Universe, there is still one more DCEU film slated for release in 2023. Following the disappointing performance of The Flash at the box office, Warner Bros. Discovery is gearing up for the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom in December, with Jason Momoa reprising his role as the beloved Justice League hero. However, the film is facing additional troubles as its release date approaches.
According to a report from THR, Aquaman 2 has undergone a total of three reshoots, the most recent being a result of a tumultuous journey behind the scenes. The trade publication reveals that there have been multiple conflicting visions among executives, leading to issues with story clarity. This also involves the situation with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom's connection to Batman, as both Ben Affleck and Michael Keaton have filmed scenes as their respective versions of Bruce Wayne. However, it is now being reported that neither of them will be included in the final cut, as DC Studios' co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran did not want to make promises about a movie universe that will not materialize. Lastly, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom has reportedly received several lackluster test screenings, raising concerns about the overall reception of the DCEU film.
Aquaman 2's Chances Of Being In The DC Universe Explained
Aquaman, primarily associated with the DCEU, faces uncertainty regarding Jason Momoa's future in the franchise. DC Studios had hinted that Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom might be connected to the new DC Universe, indicating their intention to continue with Aquaman characters beyond the 2023 film. However, these recent reports raise questions about the likelihood of integrating Aquaman into Gunn's franchise.
Considering the underperformance of the DCEU's recent films (Black Adam, Shazam! Fury of the Gods, and The Flash), DC Studios will likely aim to distance itself from the previous universe. The prospects for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom to succeed commercially have diminished, particularly due to the increased budget for additional reshoots. It is increasingly likely that Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom will serve as the definitive end of the DCEU as DC Studios moves forward into 2024.
Momoa's time as Aquaman may be over, but he is still excited about a DC project discussed with Gunn and Peter Safran, which many speculate could be him taking on the role of Lobo. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA strikes, we may not receive any official announcements soon. Nonetheless, fans can hope to see Momoa back in the DC Universe, whether as Lobo, Aquaman, or another character, without a long wait, regardless of the performance of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom this December.
