Exclusive: Aquaman 3 Already in the Works! Director Drops Major Hints for an Epic DCEU Finale

Summary

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom's ending teases a possible Aquaman 3, according to director James Wan.

The second movie introduces ideas that can be expanded upon in a potential third installment.

Potential storylines for Aquaman 3 include the potential scenario of Black Manta causing the death of Aquaman's son, prompting the hero to undergo personal growth and triumph over this tragedy.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom director James Wan has disclosed that the upcoming film's ending hints at the possibility of Aquaman 3. Despite being the conclusion of the DC Extended Universe, the movie does not foreclose on Jason Momoa's continuation as Aquaman. During a screening event for the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom trailer, Wan revealed that there are more avenues for Momoa's Aquaman character to explore. He also confirmed that the film's narrative will build up to a significant conclusion, laying the groundwork for something larger. Here is his complete statement:

"The Aquaman franchise has immense potential for growth, especially considering the captivating Jason Momoa storyline. The conclusion of this movie sets the stage for a new direction, hinting at a larger narrative. However, I would rather not divulge further details regarding this, as it directly ties in with the climactic ending." In his conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Wan additionally expressed his vision for Aquaman 3, emphasizing the importance of character development and their evolution. The complete quote can be found below:

What Aquaman 3 Could Be About

What sets this one apart from the first is the noticeable growth of Arthur. Initially portrayed as a wanderer, in the second movie, he establishes a clearer sense of purpose and direction for his life. If a third installment were to be made, it should focus on the character's development. The groundwork has been laid in the second film, providing ample material to build upon. While I don't have any specific stories in mind, I believe that the next Aquaman movie should prioritize the growth of its characters.

Aquaman 3's storyline presents several potential paths. The recently released trailer for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom suggests that Black Manta will actively pursue Arthur Curry's family, hinting at the possibility of the film incorporating a significant moment from the comics. It is plausible that the movie will depict Black Manta's heinous act of killing Aquaman's son, mirroring the events in the original comic series and thereby setting the stage for Aquaman 3.

Black Manta's killing of Aquaman's son in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom aligns with Wan's statement that the film's ending sets up possibilities for a sequel with a larger scope. It also supports the director's intention to further develop the characters in Aquaman 3. Dealing with such a devastating loss would provide an opportunity to showcase how Momoa's character can evolve into an even more formidable hero.

Given that Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is the final film in the DCEU, any potential sequel, such as Aquaman 3, would likely be released as part of the new DC Universe or under the DC's Elseworlds label, which encompasses non-canonical projects separate from James Gunn's DCU. Considering Gunn's previous comments about Momoa's involvement in the DCU, Aquaman 3 could explore Arthur Curry's role in this new universe and highlight any distinctions between the DCEU and DCU versions of Aquaman. This approach would inject new life into Momoa's franchise and offer a fresh narrative for the audience.

Source: Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom trailer screening event & Entertainment Weekly