Aquaman & the Lost Kingdom: A Visual Splendor with Retro Horror Vibes
In less than two months, WB is set to release Aquaman & the Lost Kingdom. Building on the success of the first film, this sequel promises to be a thrilling adventure that sets itself apart from other superhero blockbusters with its stunning visuals and unique blend of aesthetics. From drum-playing octopuses to underwater warriors wielding aquatic laser rifles against a kingdom of crab men, these movies are undeniably extravagant.
Director James Wan recently spoke to Empire Magazine about his inspiration for Lost Kingdom. He drew influence from Ray Harryhausen’s stop-motion creatures (like the mechanical squid Octobot seen in the trailer) and Euro-horror films such as the 1965 classic Planet of the Vampires. Wan revealed that he wanted the sequel to have a “retro, ’60s horror look” and to incorporate more horror elements, akin to the inclusion of ocean-dwelling cannibals known as the Trench in the first film.
Another source of inspiration for Wan in Aquaman & the Lost Kingdom is buddy comedies like Tango & Cash. Wan expressed his desire to create an “outright buddy comedy.” In the film, Arthur Curry (played by Jason Momoa) and his brother Orm (played by Patrick Wilson) join forces years after their clash in the first movie. Wan emphasized that the two Aquaman films seamlessly flow into each other, similar to how one would experience a double feature. He compared Arthur’s playful, vibrant personality to Will Smith’s character in Men in Black, contrasting it with Orm’s more serious demeanor, much like Tommy Lee Jones’ character.
Aquaman & the Lost Kingdom hits theaters on December 20, offering audiences a visually stunning cinematic experience infused with retro horror vibes.
Source: James Wan Teases Aquaman 2’s Retro Horror, Buddy Comedy Vibes
