Diving into the depths of the ocean, "Aquaman" 2018 promised a treasure trove of adventure and a new realm of superhero excitement. Amidst the grandeur of its underwater kingdoms, the film rides the current between visual spectacle and narrative turbulence, ultimately surfacing with a score that lands right in the middle: 5 out of 10.
Jason Momoa brings a tangible charisma to Arthur Curry, the man destined to claim the Atlantean throne. Momoa's presence is undeniable, and his portrayal of Aquaman offers moments where we catch glimpses of a king-to-be tussling with his dual heritage. Mera (Amber Heard), with her vivid red locks, complements Arthur with her sharp determination and an iridescent touch of Atlantean royalty.
However, the film's roar is louder than its bite. Scenes that should have reverberated with dramatic tension instead feel like a relentless barrage of booming soundtracks and cascading visual effects. The result is an audiovisual tidal wave that washes over the audience, leaving little room for breath. An escape to the concessions stand feels more like a respite than a break in this marathon of action and noise.
A key element that gets swept away in the undertow is the plot. The script feels more like a first draft than a polished narrative. What should be a richly woven tale of royal intrigue and a hero's journey is, at times, simplistic and lacking nuance. Dialogue that could have been sharp and witty often flounders in a sea of clichés and on-the-nose exposition.
Despite these turbulences, "Aquaman" does manage to keep its head above water with some shining moments. The concept of clashing undersea nations adds an aquatic freshness to the genre and Willem Dafoe's performance as Nuidis Vulko provides a seasoned presence amidst a storm of younger characters. Orm, Arthur's half-brother and nemesis, portrayed by Patrick Wilson, has his flashes of conflicted brilliance, but his motivations sometimes sink into the abyss of one-dimensional villainy.
Truly, the film's anchor is in its visual splendor. The design of Atlantis and its inhabitants is where "Aquaman" sails closest to greatness. The bioluminescent marine life and vast, imaginative landscapes temper the whirlpool of its less inspired choices.
Ultimately, "Aquaman" is a movie caught between the tides. It's not a voyage that will be remembered as legendary, but neither is it a shipwreck. For those content with a heavy dose of action and splendor, "Aquaman" will hold water. Just be prepared for a cinematic experience that, while visually captivating, might just leave you wishing for a quieter sail across the cinematic sea.
