Aquaman 2 Came Out With A Whimper And Not A Bang. How Do Its Stars Actually Feel About The Formerly Popular DC Franchise Ending?

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2023 marked the conclusion of the DC Extended Universe following “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” which brought in approximately $439 million worldwide, significantly less than the first film’s impressive billion-dollar earnings. Not only was its box office performance disappointing, but the revamp led by James Gunn and his team of the entire superhero universe also raised concerns. However, if you were to ask a key actor, they might say it’s fine that it’s all done now, with a touch of nostalgia.

In the following movie, Jason Momoa’s character Arthur Curry teamed up with Patrick Wilson’s Orm, also known as Ocean Master, despite their past attempts to harm each other in the previous film. Fortunately, they managed to reconcile in the final DCEU DC movie, explaining why Wilson is content with the Aquaman series conclusion. When asked if he wished the Aquaman film series had continued for more than two movies, he responded:

As a seasoned movie critic who has tackled several “Insidious” films, numerous ‘Conjurings,’ and even a couple of ‘Aquaman’ sequels, I must admit that my expectations may have been somewhat elevated for this latest installment. However, I can’t help but feel that the narrative fell short of reaching those lofty heights.

When it comes to Orm, the antagonist from the first film, I found myself questioning where his character could possibly go after his transformation in the second movie. Given that I wasn’t involved in a third movie, there was no personal disappointment, but rather a sense of uncertainty as to where the story might lead. The creative direction seemed unclear to me.

During an interview with Variety regarding his latest film, “Millers in Marriage” (set for release in 2025), the actor expressed some insights. As far as wrapping up his tenure with DC, his perspective is valid.

Initially appearing as a villain in the 2018 film “Aquaman,” Orm, though antagonistic, was also portrayed sympathetically due to his outrage over the pollution of the oceans by the surface world. Later in “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” (released after nearly five years), Orm is freed from imprisonment to assist Arthur in locating Black Manta and thwarting his evil plans.

As a movie enthusiast, I find myself captivated by a fascinating two-part odyssey that chronicles Patrick Wilson’s character’s remarkable transformation. In the final scene of the second movie, he savors his very first cheeseburger, an experience that leaves me pondering – what other plausible storyline could follow besides Orm reuniting with Arthur once more?

Prior to the announcement of DCEU’s conclusion and the emergence of the new DC Universe franchise, there was no formal hint suggesting the production of Aquaman 3. Yet, it doesn’t mean that Patrick Wilson wouldn’t have accepted a role in a third installment had he been offered one. In his own words:

I’d welcome such an occasion. We had a fantastic experience filming the second one. I had a blast. I feel incredibly lucky to have my two adventures in superhero roles be these unique characters, Night Owl Two [in “Watchmen”] and Ocean Master. It’s quirky, strange, and odd, but I enjoy it. Honestly, I can’t deny that. So, I’m content with things moving forward in this way.

In contrast to parts of the DCEU being incorporated into the new DC Universe, it appears that the Aquaman section won’t be included. For instance, Jason Momoa is set to portray Lobo in “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow”, a DC film slated for summer 2026. There might be a chance for Patrick Wilson to assume another character within the DCU, but as of now, he seems content with moving on from Orm’s role.

If you’re interested in watching either of the Aquaman films, you can stream them both by subscribing to Max. Alternatively, catch the DCU soaring on the big screen as the James Gunn-led Superman premieres on July 11.

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2025-02-27 18:07