A Tidal Wave of Controversy Surrounds “Aquaman” Sequel
The entertainment realm is swirling with rumors and revelations as Warner Bros. anticipates the release of its much-discussed “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” a project enveloped in a storm of behind-the-scenes drama.
The Stirring of Depp-Heard Scandal
On the backdrop of the trailer’s release, Reddit was abuzz with newly released documents from the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard defamation trial. Funded by Depp’s ardent fans, these documents spotlight notes from Heard’s therapist, Dr. Dawn Hughes, sketching a hostile on-set environment. Allegations highlight Jason Momoa, in an inebriated state, channeling Depp’s look, complete with his iconic rings, and campaigning to oust Heard from her role as Mera.
“Jason said he wanted me fired,” the notes underline. “Jason drunk — late on set. Dressing like Johnny. Has all the rings too.”
However, DC’s representatives, as well as insiders, refute this portrayal of Momoa. Emphasizing his professionalism and cordial relationship with Heard, they defended the Aquaman star’s dedication to his craft and debunked any connection to Depp’s style.
Heard’s Tumultuous “Aquaman” Journey
Heard’s involvement in the sequel was not without turbulence. Her interactions with the movie’s director, James Wan, are described as strained, particularly due to the shadows cast by her notorious legal wrangles with Depp.
“He raised his voice @ me — ‘I can’t even post about Aquaman’ — made it like it was my fault – I said ‘I’m sorry,'” as detailed by Hughes.
While whispers suggest that the studio even considered parting ways with Heard after the 2018 “Aquaman” release, an intervention by Elon Musk, the actress’s former boyfriend, changed the narrative. A formidable letter by one of Musk’s lawyers ensured Heard’s return, leading the studio to acquiesce.
Warner Bros.’s Future Landscape
With the “Aquaman” sequel looming large, Warner Bros. stands at a crossroads. Given past accomplishments like the $1.15 billion earnings of the original “Aquaman,” the sequel held substantial promise. However, internal sources suggest hitches in its execution, indicating repeated edits and reshoots. The studio’s transition from the legacy of Zack Snyder to new creative heads like James Gunn and Peter Safran complicates matters.
This transformation will also see major actors like Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, and Gal Gadot not reprising their roles in the fresh DC universe, though Momoa might make a comeback, potentially as Lobo.
As the DC landscape transforms, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav aims to rejuvenate the brand. Despite speculations regarding potential takeovers of Warner Bros., the focus remains steadfast on solidifying DC’s position in the cinematic realm.
Looking Forward
While controversies might be stealing the spotlight, there’s still hope for the “Aquaman” sequel. Industry insiders, like box office analyst Jeff Bock, see potential in its timely release during the holiday season, especially given the previous film’s trajectory.
“Everybody’s down on DC, but there is a chance, especially with the limited competition during the holiday season, that ‘Aquaman’ could still play like gangbusters because of lack of product,” Bock optimistically states.
Whether or not the sequel manages to replicate the success of its predecessor remains to be seen. What’s undeniable, however, is the turbulence that Warner Bros. and its Aquaman franchise have weathered in this journey.
Source: Variety
