Is the Aquaman Movie a Step in the Right Direction for the DCEU?

While The Flash took some steps in the wrong direction, Aquaman managed to entertain and capture an epic feel, making it somewhat of a step in the right direction for the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).

Focus on Standalone Storytelling

One of the key strengths of Aquaman was its ability to focus on a standalone story without being bogged down by the elaborate web of interconnected crossovers that have defined the DCEU. Unlike films such as Justice League which were designed to set up a massive franchise, Aquaman managed to tell a satisfying tale on its own terms.

Self-Contained Narrative

The plot followed Arthur Curry (played by Jason Momoa) in his quest to connect with his true identity and defeat an ancient enemy, Conider. While there were no overarching connections to the broader DCEU storyline, the filmmakers chose to focus exclusively on the journey of Aquaman, making the film more compelling and less reliant on pre-existing continuity.

Ignoring Previous Costumes

Another interesting choice was the decision to ignore the bleak costumes Arthur and Mera wore in Justice League. This departure from the previous characterization allowed the audience to find new depth and intrigue in these characters, away from the baggage of past portrayals.

Self-Particles vs Marvel's Strategy

The success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is often attributed to its interconnected narrative framework, with each film containing Easter eggs and subtle hints that tie into upcoming releases. However, DC's approach with Aquaman is more aligned with the early days of Marvel, where standalone films were the norm.

While having standalone films can lead to a more focused narrative, there is a downside in terms of the lack of continuity and potential storyline development. For instance, Aquaman's post-credits scene primarily set the stage for a sequel rather than bridging with other DCEU releases.

Room for Improvement

The script of Aquaman could certainly use some improvements to avoid cringe-worthy moments. Particularly, the dialogue and certain narrative elements came across as derivative. This is not necessarily a fault, as many movies draw inspiration from existing tropes, but a more polished script would enhance the overall experience.

Future Prospects

While Aquaman demonstrated the benefits of standalone storytelling, it is also important to acknowledge that the DCEU is a long-term project. Having a Justice League crossover, with the appropriate amount of buildup, could potentially bridge these stories more effectively, ensuring a cohesive narrative arc across multiple films.

Balancing Standalone Films and Crossover

Balancing the strengths of standalone storytelling with the potential for rich, interconnected stories is a fine line to walk. The experience of Aquaman suggests that DC could benefit from a mix of these approaches, leveraging standalone films for their ability to captivate audiences while also planning for strategic crossovers that enhance the overall narrative.

In conclusion, Aquaman represents a step in the right direction for the DCEU by focusing on a self-contained and engaging narrative. However, it also highlights the benefits of interconnectivity and the potential for future crossovers that could enrich the DCEU's ecosystem.