Aquaman's Resilience in the DCEU
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom's box office performance is a good sign for the King of Atlantis' future in James Gunn's DCU reboot. After a string of critical and commercial disappointments, the DCEU's last hope to end on a high note rested on James Wan's Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, which chose not to include any nods to the rest of the DCEU and instead focused on Aquaman and Atlantis. But while Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom's cast, self-contained plot, and connection to the highly popular Aquaman were always in its favor, the sequel faced an uphill battle at the box office due to DC's recent unfortunate streak.
Jason Momoa wearing Atlan's Royal Suit in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
Regardless of what Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom's ending suggests, Jason Momoa is unlikely to return as Aquaman in James Gunn and Peter Safran's DC Universe, as the reboot will recast the whole Justice League and will likely shake up the team's line-up in order to stand out from the DCEU's version. However, Aquaman is a key DC hero and a proven success on the big screen, and his presence in the DCU stands on the line. Whether Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom thrives or flops, its box office results will likely influence the character's relevance in the DCU, as they reflect the general audience's interest in the character.
Aquamam in the DCEU and the Justice League in DC Comics
Aquaman's future in the DCEU is inevitable, and the character's resilience in the face of recent challenges is a testament to the enduring appeal of the King of Atlantis.
Aquaman with Batman and Superman in DC Comics
Aquaman & The Lost Kingdom's Box Office Triumph
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom has defied expectations with its box office performance, surpassing The Marvels' earnings in a shorter timeframe and standing out from recent DCEU entries. Despite facing a decline in its second weekend, the sequel's overall performance is a testament to the brand power of Aquaman and the appeal of DC's Atlantis. The movie's success also highlights the character's relevance in the DCU and its potential to continue captivating audiences.
Aquaman, Black Manta, and Orm in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
The impressive box office run of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, achieved with minimal marketing and no premiere ceremony, underscores the enduring popularity of Jason Momoa's Aquaman and the resilience of the character in the face of challenging market conditions. The sequel's performance has signaled a positive outlook for Aquaman's future in the DCU, establishing the character as a valuable asset for James Gunn's DC Universe.
Montage of Superman: Legacy frontrunners David Corenswet and Nicholas Hoult at each side of a Superman from the comics.
Aquaman's Influence on the DCU Reboot
The success of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom has reshaped the narrative surrounding the character's future in the DCU reboot. Despite the potential recasting of the Justice League, Aquaman's enduring brand power and box office triumph have solidified his significance in the revamped DC Universe. The character's ability to break the DCEU's negative streak and maintain audience interest reflects the potential for an exciting and successful reinvention in James Gunn's DC Universe.
Aquaman vs Ocean Master in the DCEU's Aquaman 2018
Aquaman's comic-accurate costume, characterization, story, and lore have been less divisive than those of other iconic DC characters, positioning the King of Atlantis as a compelling and adaptable figure in the evolving DCU landscape. The character's inevitable return to the DC Universe, whether immediate or delayed, is a testament to the enduring appeal of Aquaman and the potential for a fresh and original take on the beloved hero.
Aquaman with The Flash, Green Lantern, and Hawkgirl in DC Comics Justice League(1)
