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OtherWorldly

Banned
Dec 3, 2018
2,857
This is how dceu movies should have always been from the beginning, cheesefest fun. It's hilarious that aquaman feels bigger in scope and scale than freaking justice league.
 

Ocarina_117

Member
Oct 26, 2017
9,570
Every action sequence was great.

Really top tier for the genre.

The final LotR style battle... PHEW.

Wish some of the other kingdoms got some more love, but the foundation is here for an even better sequel.

Creature designs were all top notch.

Some brilliant moments of cinematography - some scenes looked like a double page splash.
 

Deleted member 36543

User requested account closure
Banned
Dec 20, 2017
1,355
Jame Wan delivered. Best DC movie to date and better than a lot of Marvel movies.

A grand ride from start to finish. Amber heard was stunning and her acting/ character made this movie great. Momoa needs to work on his delivery. He's good at one liners though.

The camera work was masterful, and the cgi action was grand. I love this direction DC is going.
 

Ocarina_117

Member
Oct 26, 2017
9,570
Jame Wan delivered. Best DC movie to date and better than a lot of Marvel movies.

A grand ride from start to finish. Amber heard was stunning and her acting/ character made this movie great. Momoa needs to work on his delivery. He's good at one liners though.

The camera work was masterful, and the cgi action was grand. I love this direction DC is going.

The opening action sequence and the whole Italy sequence were so fluid and great to watch.
 

Grimmjow

One Winged Slayer
Banned
Oct 25, 2017
2,543
Just got back from the Amazon Prime showing. Aquaman is legit great and James Wan did my boy justice!
 

whytemyke

The Fallen
Oct 28, 2017
3,786
I had a lot of fun with this movie. I wouldn't necessarily say it's flawless but it sure was a good ride.

Also, I don't think this is a spoiler, but it sure felt like they got the marching orders for a soft reboot. Like if WB wanted to reboot the franchise from here I think they could without causing too many waves.

One tiny tiny gripe: I don't get how the aging tech looked so bad in certain characters when most of the effects were fantastic.
 

broncobuster

Member
Oct 26, 2017
8,139
I had a lot of fun with this movie. I wouldn't necessarily say it's flawless but it sure was a good ride.

Also, I don't think this is a spoiler, but it sure felt like they got the marching orders for a soft reboot. Like if WB wanted to reboot the franchise from here I think they could without causing too many waves.

One tiny tiny gripe: I don't get how the aging tech looked so bad in certain characters when most of the effects were fantastic.

I will say, during the initial Arthur and Mera scenes, they played it like they barely knew each other. Arthur didn't even know her name. I'm sitting there thinking "wait, didn't they talk in Justice League?" Huh?

Also,

they mention Steppenwolf, but during the news report, they somehow find it hard to believe in Atlantis in a world with Superman, Wonder Woman, and Flash.

Showing Supes helping out during the floods elsewhere in the world on TV could've been nice, too. But I get why they want to keep it all about Aquaman
 

Silver-Streak

Member
Oct 25, 2017
3,007
This movie was basically Aragorn's journey from LOTR, but mostly underwater.

They made a thoroughly enjoyable live action movie starring Aquaman, which is not a thing I'd ever say in my life.
 

Papacheeks

Banned
Oct 27, 2017
5,620
Watertown, NY
People comparing the story/writing to the same as Black panther is .....well something. Black panther may have not had a great third act in action because the CG and all that was all over the place. But the writing/acting was top notch. Killmonger was by far way better developed than Manta was. And I'm a huge manta fan.
 

TerminusFox

Banned
Oct 27, 2017
3,851
Yeah, I'm gonna be the negative Nancy. I saw Into The Spiderverse earlier this afternoon, and my god this movie was such a stepdown This movie is not quite awful, but it barely scrapes by as being "decent " on its BEST day. I'd put it just above Suicide Squad and BvS. Doesn't hold a candle to WW or MoS (which have their own issues.) . The thing that keeps it from being outright trash is some of the shots/transitions and some parts of Atlantis, and certain parts of the action sequences.

The more I think about it, the more pissed off I get.
 

Firaga

Member
Oct 29, 2017
736
It is very average and the power scaling in dc universe sucks. Superman is too OP by himself. Also Heard and Momoa has no chemistry.
 

TerminusFox

Banned
Oct 27, 2017
3,851
It is very average and the power scaling in dc universe sucks. Superman is too OP by himself. Also Heard and Momoa has no chemistry.
lol, Superman would've stopped Ocean Master by himself.

And I like how this film tries to pretend everyone would be skeptical of Atlantis when they've had FOUR world ending events within the span of almost 5 years.
 

Quinton

Specialist at TheGamer / Reviewer at RPG Site
Member
Oct 25, 2017
17,273
Midgar, With Love
I can't get over the fact that Jason Momoa has now played in two roles against the backdrop of the legendary city of Atlantis.
 

piratepwnsninja

Lead Game Designer
Verified
Oct 25, 2017
3,811
Ok, so, Aquaman... I'm not sure it's good, but I was definitely more entertained by it than any of the other DCCU films. It's not grimdark in the least. In fact, it's an incredibly beautiful film to look at. Whatever the budget was, and I don't care what it was, it looked at least twice that. Like, perhaps the most fantastical looking film since Avatar. Some really standout shots, too.

It's 100% the cheesiest film I've seen in a long time, but maybe you can't do Aquaman without cheese. It revels in it. The third act is gonzo. I'd actually watch it again, and maybe that says enough.
 

Tahnit

Member
Oct 25, 2017
9,965
Just got back from seeing it. It may be my favorite DC movie ever. The one shot
of them swimming down into the trench surrounded by creatures while they move with a little red light
Was my favorite shot. It was incredible.

The Italy scene was extremely well shot as well.
 

Penguin

The Mushroom Kingdom Knight
Member
Oct 25, 2017
6,216
New York
Still trying to properly formulate thoughts, but I do love how the "Fish boy" scene from the trailers was actually played.
 

Gundam

Banned
Oct 25, 2017
12,801
Movie was way better than the trailers made it out to be. Had fun! Definitely need to rewatch on IMAX.

For once, I didn't hate the dumb LOTR battle at the end in a superhero movie. I thought I would be burned out on it after disliking both Wakanda battles. The worst part of the movie is the Sahara stuff. Just feels blegh all the way through. Genuinely impressed. It's dumb, cheesy fun. Out of all of the characters they could have made cartoonish though, I wish Black Manta was treated a bit more seriously.

The Marvel Phase 1 comparison is super surface level. Honestly, the world building alone puts it more in the Phase 2 or 3 realm, but I also really don't like Phase 2 Marvel like at all, so it's a weird metric for comparison anyway.
 

petethepanda

Saw the truth behind the copied door
Member
Oct 25, 2017
6,182
chicago
The moment Aquaman enters the frame accompanied by a big goofy guitar riff it's clear the movie knows exactly what it is. It's big, dumb, earnest, and kind of a fucking blast.
 

JetmanJay

Member
Nov 1, 2017
3,502
Thought it was kinda lame. Something about Amber Heard and Mamoas performance to me that felt like a Syfy B-movie or something. I vomited a little in my mouth when the Pit Bull cover of Africa played prior to the desert scene. Eyerolled every time Jason Mamoa whipped his head and hair back like a Fabio commercial.

The sfx, the design of the different underwater creatures and world, the costumes, a few of the action scenes, and the battle at the end was amazing though.

Disappointed that the Atlantean with his head in the toilet didn't make the post credit scene.
 
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MajorGripex

Member
Oct 25, 2017
187
The moment Aquaman enters the frame accompanied by a big goofy guitar riff it's clear the movie knows exactly what it is. It's big, dumb, earnest, and kind of a fucking blast.

I think this is the best description of the movie. I'm not as high on it compared to other DCEU movies and it definitely has some faults for sure. I loved the villains, all the action, the CGI, the world building, the supporting characters, it's just a stupid fun time. Though I thought the acting was fine I did have a problem with the dialogue as at times it felt dull and super cheesy. Overall I'm excited to re-watch the movie to see how it holds up after a second viewing.
 

JetSetSoul

Member
Oct 28, 2017
1,185
Not a fan. Occasionally it hinted at being the cool underwater gothic horror I'd have been down for but spent a more significant amount of time being a couple different movies.
 

DeltaRed

Member
Apr 27, 2018
5,746
I saw it on iMax and liked it, it was better than I expected, too long though with a little too much exposition and flashbacks. Soundtrack had Thor Ragnarok vibes in places. The action wss very well directed.

The DU universe finally has a second decent film to go along with Wonder Woman. Throw the rest in a fire and pretend they didn't happen. They're definitely trying to go more towards the more lighthearted route like Marvel, and colourful imagery, which is welcome.
 
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ZackieChan

Banned
Oct 27, 2017
8,056
Ah man, really? I had hopes for James Wan. If that's true, DC just can't catch a break except for Wonder Woman I guess.

I'll still watch it but I hope this movie turns out to be very successful.
Wow sounds horrible :(

DC can't catch a break.
You guys - Vern basically hates every superhero movie. No idea why he even watched this. Self flagellation.
The use of Depeche Mode for Black Manta's gear prep montage is the most jarring musical choice I've ever seen in a movie.
Yep, super weird.
Also jarring was the essentially heroic beats with Black Manta early on, with his father giving him the dagger and how his father's death was framed. Dude was a pirate, criminal, and killer. That whole bit just felt off.

Otherwise, I really enjoyed this. Thought Momoa was super fun, but I always enjoy him. I think the section where they're looking for the trident could have been consolidated, though. Movie dragged in the middle due to that being a multi-part thing. Final battle was bonkers, in a good way. I wasn't really looking forward to this, but I'm a believer now.
 

ekka4shiki

Teyvat Traveler
Member
Oct 31, 2017
2,951
Just got back from watching this. It was pretty good, I guess? For a DC? Hmm, probably my favorite DC movie so far. The action sequences (especially for 1 vs 1) and the music were pretty good. The plot is way too simple for my liking tho. My friend and I agreed it felt like an RPG in terms of structure. Still enjoyable, but could be better.
 

Nightengale

Member
Oct 26, 2017
5,708
Malaysia
This movie revels in its cheesy dialogue, big dumb hero moments, and as put by petethepanda, is super earnest about it, and ultimately made up for a really entertaining movie, all things said and done.

Everytime there's a moment where you'd go "really!?", the movie decides the best way to proceed with it is go the extra mile with super dramatic slow-mo pans shots and big guitar riff music instead of toning it down.
 

Messofanego

Member
Oct 25, 2017
26,165
UK
Much like Black Panther, the world establishing visual FX was stunning. The cinematography was great for the action sequences, like the one shot with Nicole Kidman's character and the Italy rooftop chase. Anyone know the stuntwomen for Amber Heard and Nicole Kidman? They deserve recognition.

Unintentionally hilarious moment was
Black Manta's dad death
. That was so out of a parody movie of
action movie deaths
. "Damn you" lmao

Patrick Wilson's constant shouting was hilariously bad.

Just get James Wan to direct more blockbusters, he knows how to get shit done.
 

ZackieChan

Banned
Oct 27, 2017
8,056
Just got back from watching this. It was pretty good, I guess? For a DC? Hmm, probably my favorite DC movie so far. The action sequences (especially for 1 vs 1) and the music were pretty good. The plot is way too simple for my liking tho. My friend and I agreed it felt like an RPG in terms of structure. Still enjoyable, but could be better.
I think that if it were a little more streamlined, that would have helped a lot
 

Wispmetas

The Fallen
Oct 27, 2017
6,546
Well...I actually really enjoyed that, I'm actually amazed by how cool that was! This is by far the best DC movie for me (and the only I like and can see myself watching again honestly...)

Going to put some specific moments in spoilers so I don't spoil anyone.

- First of all. Amazing visuals, loved the way this movie looked and the art direction of the different places was really great!
-Knowing nothing about Aquaman from the comics, the ammount of different underwater regions we got to see was prety great, and most looked fantastic! The moment Aquaman and Mera are going down "the pits" with the red light is simply breathtaking.
-A sudden visit to Jules Verne Centre of the earth? Loved that part really, caught me of guard.
-Really enjoyed the characters, I actually want a Mera solo movie, her powers were totally badass.
--Some of the comedy fell flat for me, sometimes Aquaman wanted to be way to much a bro.
-The action scenes were crazy! A cgi fest, but amazing nonetheless.
-Black Manta was totally unnecessary to the whole movie honestly...it all felt like wasted time with him, and after seeing the last fight of the movie, I'm not sure what he can possibly do to go against Aquaman...(judging by the after credits he will be back.)

Some random amusements:
-The way a guitar played every time Aquaman looked at the camera with a snarky face was so cheesy haha
-Was I the only one that felt uncomfortable when aquaman smelled his armpits under water? I just imagined tons of water going up his nose.
-What was up with the drums octopus player on the ring of fire?
-Fuck that Africa cover that played, god it was so bad...
-On the italy scene, I laugh so hard when Aquaman lifted a giant boulder that was on top of some guy's legs, and how after that he just walked off like he wasn't hurt.

In the end, that was a very enjoyable movie, probably because it felt more like an adventure movie than a super hero one, no big cinematic universe stuff, just a good old adventure movie.
 
Nov 13, 2017
9,537
Pasting my review here:

Just left Aquaman!

It was good. A step above Justice League, but MILES away from reaching Wonder Woman levels of filmmaking and sophistication. Like, not even close.

The special effects were awesome. I think the under water kiss scene was the most impressive thing I've seen in years. I loved all the fights that took place there. The credits were also beautifully done.

The scenes above ground in Italy might have been my favorite part. Black Manta was perfectly realized.

Now for the bad. The score and the vocal songs were a fucking disaster. It kept switching from orchestra, to Blade Runner, to Pitbull! Such a let down.

The first quarter of the film is an absolute train wreck. I was in shock of just how bad everything about it was. Thank gosh the third act was flawless.

The script was really weak and it shows. Momoa and Heard were fantastic and so was Patrick Wilson.

Overall a good, mindless popcorn flick. I wish it was better, but it's another step in the right direction.

I think Wonder Woman will remain the prestige franchise of the DCEU while the other films remain kind of surface level.
 

Certinfy

Banned
Oct 29, 2017
3,476
I mean technically as a movie this isn't as good as Wonder Woman, probably not even Man of Steel, which explains the reviews.

But in terms of enjoyment it's by far DCEU's best film. It's completely crazy and fun and general audiences will lap this movie up.

James Wan did real good I say. This movie is going to be huge.
 

OtherWorldly

Banned
Dec 3, 2018
2,857
Pasting my review here:

Just left Aquaman!

It was good. A step above Justice League, but MILES away from reaching Wonder Woman levels of filmmaking and sophistication. Like, not even close.

The special effects were awesome. I think the under water kiss scene was the most impressive thing I've seen in years. I loved all the fights that took place there. The credits were also beautifully done.

The scenes above ground in Italy might have been my favorite part. Black Manta was perfectly realized.

Now for the bad. The score and the vocal songs were a fucking disaster. It kept switching from orchestra, to Blade Runner, to Pitbull! Such a let down.

The first quarter of the film is an absolute train wreck. I was in shock of just how bad everything about it was. Thank gosh the third act was flawless.

The script was really weak and it shows. Momoa and Heard were fantastic and so was Patrick Wilson.

Overall a good, mindless popcorn flick. I wish it was better, but it's another step in the right direction.

I think Wonder Woman will remain the prestige franchise of the DCEU while the other films remain kind of surface level.

This movie though isn't pretending to be an Oscar winning story, or serious or sophisticated . It's a cheesefest and knows it is and revels in it. And it's a lot of fun.
 

Amiablepercy

Banned
Nov 4, 2017
3,587
California
Saw Aquaman last night and had a great time. It is silly and lighthearted but hit the right emotional notes when it had to. The whole 80s vibe worked and the world building was really awesome. I never thought I would be fascinated and want to know more about the lore of underwater dwellers but I now am and hope they keep going in the sequel.
 

petethepanda

Saw the truth behind the copied door
Member
Oct 25, 2017
6,182
chicago
Between Wonder Woman, anything involving The Flash in Justice League, Aquaman, and that Shazam trailer, it seems like DC's new brand is earnesty, and I'm here for it.
 
Liked the movie! This is the direct DC movies need, light hearted and not ashamed of being a super hero movie. I had a quick read of the comic book storyline they used as the basis for the movie. (Superman did try to fight the flood but got his butt kicked briefly.)
 

Xagarath

Member
Oct 28, 2017
3,140
North-East England
I like how this film full-on embraces it's own ridiculous premise and over-the-top setting without becoming self-conscious or winking to the audience.
It's the film John Carter really wanted to be, but far more fun to watch.
 

THE210

Member
Nov 30, 2017
1,544
I thought it was barely okay. The acting was awful and and the plot wasn't much better. They should have cut at least 20 minutes from this thing. I also wasnt feeling Black Manta at all.