Wow. This movie is over the top in every aspect. This is visually one of the most beautiful movies there are. I wish I would have seen in in 3D, because I have a feeling that it is Avatar level of must see in 3D. Every frame of this movie, every visual choice, piece of clothing, creature design, use of color and lights is just stunning. This is at least a must see on the big screen. A real feast for your eyes. From the moment that the special design for the WB and DC logos came on the screen I knew that I was watching something special. James Wan is simply a master in my eyes. I can't believe this movie didn't get an Oscar VFX nomination and didn't even make the long list.
As for the movie itself it is super fun. By that I mean that it has a 90s action movie feeling to it. It does not take itself too seriously, but it takes it action scenes really seriously. Some of the action here is super awesome and will be remembered for aged, and then there are stupid jokes. Even the soundtrack feels like it is there to give you that extra pump like movies once did. Also it has a Depeche Mode song in it, I am a huge fan so I had a nearly jumped out of my seat sort of moment. I left the theater with a smile on my face and a lot of people clapped at the screen when the movie ended, that's a good sign in my book.
This movie is super aware that Jason Momoa and Amber Heard are its lead actors. The script feels like it was written for them more than anything else. And it's not just their acting abilities I am talking about. This movie is aware that their two lead actor are super good looking. You gets moments where you feel like you are watching a shampoo commercial or a Baywatch commercial (which Jason Momoa did play in). We know that Aquaman doesn't need to be without his shirt so much of the time, but as a female member of the audience I really appreciate it. The script made the role fit perfectly with Jason Momoa. Amber Heard is superpowered Ariel. I know that the movie references a different Disney classic, but from the red hair to the amazing dress, Mera is Ariel. With amazing powers.
The villains were surprisingly good. Not Thanos level of good, but not cringed worthy. King Orm, or more correctly Ocean Master, is played by Patrick Wilson. Patrick Wilson was in many of James Wan's horror movies as the good guy, but here, he is the villain. He does a pretty good job I think. I always saw him as a nice guy, dad, sort of actor, but not anymore. He even managed to impress me in his action scenes. Dolph Lundgren helped to give the movie even more of a 90s feeling to it. He was ok in this movie, which is a compliment. He doesn't have a lot of screen time, but his character is ok. Black Manta did not impress me. The suit was cool, the action was cool, but I am not sure if its Yahya Abdul-Mateen II fault or the movie's, but his character choices just didn't work for me.
Once you get over how many plastic surgeries Nicole Kidman did, you can remember that she's actually a pretty good actress. She was really good in her role as Queen Atlanna. Who knew she can even do some action scenes.
As for the plot itself, you've seen the big parts in the trailer. Arthur Curry must stop Orm from starting a war against the surface world. A surface world which is pretty terrible to the ocean. This movie does have an environmental message. In order to stop Orm, Arthur must find the lost trident of Atlan with the help of Mera. It's pretty simple and in this case simple is good. It leave a lot of room for humor, excellent action scenes and amazing visuals. And most importantly, a mostly coherent story. I hope that like me, you will leave your theater smiling.
It is a must see in theaters. Don't think otherwise.
I give it a 8.5/10
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