A Unique Maritime Epic

Rating: 7/10 (16 December 2018)

Let me start by saying this film is a definite improvement from past DC Films. This movie felt a bit long considering it's run time of 2hrs 23 mins as the epic scope of CGI scenes battled with trying to keep a simple plot refreshing. It is a film of royalty and myth which rewards this film by giving it the grand scale other DC films lack. Sure this film does follow the typical formula, but there are a few twists which keep the film from being an absolute bore. Visually this film is looks pretty as the nearly endless CGI serves as mostly pleasurable to the eyes. The various environments of the sea vary from illuminated wonder to dreary darkness but it is satisfying to see how broad film is with creating kingdoms of the sea. There is a scene where Aquaman spins his trident with terrible CGI but I'll ignore that. As for character development, this film has had more than a lot of past DC films and as an audience we learn enough about Aquaman to understand his motivation. This could go deeper but in an already long movie it would be quite difficult and would most likely become a snooze fest. There are moments that are bound to make you smirk in the dialogue and the characters are likable enough that you don't end up hating them and might come to enjoy them during the film. However, this is an action film and deep dialogue is the last thing you'd expect. There are moments which can be a bit cheesy or over the top but it is satisfying to follow Aquaman through his journey though the sea. His relationships add a layer of richness which somewhat invests you in his motivations and endeavors. If it wasn't for his companion Momoa, his brashness and over the top nature would be unbearable and annoying, but she provides an acceptable balance. Overall, this film entertains with its adventurous feel and monumental battles but it falls victim to a lengthy run time which is unbalanced in pacing. I would recommend and I feel cinemagoers will feel some sense of satisfaction from DCs oceanic epic. It is a refreshing take on a system which is formulaic (both Marvel and DC) with a unique setting and royal grandeur which sets it apart from its predecessors.