The End of an Era
The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) has officially concluded with the release of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, marking the end of a decade-long journey that began with Zack Snyder's Man of Steel. This final installment has left fans in awe with a surprising reference to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bringing the two superhero franchises together in an unexpected way. The DCEU's journey introduced iconic characters such as Wonder Woman, Batman, and Aquaman, but it faced challenges and changes behind the scenes, preventing it from reaching the same heights as the MCU.
Patrick Wilson as Orm and Jason Momoa As Arthur Curry Flanked By Shark Guards In Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
In an effort to revitalize the DCEU, Warner Bros. Discovery established DC Studios, led by filmmaker James Gunn and producer Peter Safran, with the aim of creating a cohesive cinematic universe based on DC Comics characters. The announcement of early plans for the new DC Universe signaled a new era for the franchise, with the 2023 DC movies serving as the final remnants of the DCEU. Among these, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom stands as the ultimate DCEU movie to hit theaters, concluding the cinematic universe that has captivated audiences for a decade.
Arthur Curry in costume in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
The Marvel Reference
The conclusion of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom features a pivotal moment in which Arthur Curry, portrayed by Jason Momoa, addresses the world to announce Atlantis's presence. As he concludes his speech with the resounding declaration, 'I am Aquaman!', he pays homage to a significant moment in the MCU - Robert Downey Jr.'s iconic scene from Iron Man, where Tony Stark announces, 'I am Iron Man.' This deliberate reference to the MCU's groundbreaking moment serves as a nod to the superhero genre's massive success and represents a bridge between the DCEU and MCU.
Patrick Wilson as Orm and Jason Momoa As Arthur Curry Looking Dirty In A Cave In Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
The choice to end the DCEU with an MCU reference signifies a departure from any perceived rivalry between the two superhero franchises. Instead, it epitomizes the idea that there is no real competition between Marvel and DC movies. Jason Momoa's final line in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom not only pays homage to the MCU but also reflects the sentiment shared by many filmmakers, including James Gunn, that both Marvel and DC movies should strive to be exceptional. This reference serves as an acknowledgment of the pivotal role played by Iron Man in shaping the superhero genre's success, effectively ending the DCEU on a note of positivity and unity.
Black Manta In Full Costume With Black Trident In Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
