DC’s Underwater Ruler Meets Marvel’s God of Thunder?
While DC’s reigning box office champ, Aquaman, basks in its glory, fans have noted curious parallels with a less-celebrated Marvel counterpart. James Wan’s 2018 blockbuster not only shattered box office records but also managed to keep Jason Momoa’s Aquaman free from the stormy seas of controversy. As the waves of anticipation build for the sequel, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” it’s intriguing to notice its plot similarities with Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World.”
Diving Into the Plots: Two Brothers Unite
In the first full trailer of “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” it’s evident that peace has flourished between Atlantis and the surface. As Aquaman embraces fatherhood and kingship, shadows from the past threaten to disrupt this peace. The iconic Black Manta pushes Aquaman to mend fences with his exiled sibling, Orm. Together, they aim to shield Atlantis from a menace linked to Aquaman’s formidable foe.
“Aquaman and Ocean Master vs. Thor and Loki” could be a tagline here. Just as the two Atlantean brothers unite, Thor’s second cinematic outing saw him teaming up with Loki, his estranged brother. Their common mission? To thwart a nemesis intending to turn an ancient curse into a weapon. The malevolent plan, though ultimately foiled, exacts a high emotional toll on the hero.
Rehashed Plot or Timeless Tale?
While parallels between “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” and “Thor: The Dark World” are unmistakable, it’s essential to note that echoing plots aren’t indicative of uninspired storytelling. Narratives across genres often dance to similar beats. The hero’s journey of loss, vulnerability, and ultimate resurgence shines in films like “Spider-Man 2,” “Superman II,” and “Iron Man 3.”
Additionally, alliances between heroes and villains aren’t unprecedented. The “X-Men” franchise often showcased the complicated dynamics between Magneto and Charles Xavier. Even “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” hinted at a timeline where familiar faces, hero or villain, banded together against overpowering odds.
The Promise of the King of Atlantis
While “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” might mirror certain elements from “Thor: The Dark World,” it sails on its unique current. This sequel, far from being a mere reflection, possesses the potential to navigate the pitfalls of its Marvel counterpart and offer fans a fresh narrative featuring the King of Atlantis and his once-estranged brother.
In conclusion, while superheroes from different universes may traverse familiar story arcs, it’s the distinctive execution, characters, and worlds that make each tale special. “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is poised to reaffirm this, making a splash in its own right.
