James Wan's Return to the Roots: Why Aquaman is a Classic Hero Restored

James Wan has delivered a fresh take on the Aquaman franchise by returning to the roots of the character. In this article, we will explore why this approach is key to restoring the classic hero to audiences and why it bodes well for the future of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).

From the Golden Age to Modern Times

Created in the 1940s, Aquaman has battled a variety of adversaries, including pirates, giant sea horses, and sea monsters, while discovering hidden undersea civilizations of crab people. His comics sold a million copies each month and he even starred in his own cartoon in the 1960s, becoming a beloved member of the Superfriends. However, in the 1980s, after the rise of gritty and dark superhero films such as Watchmen and The Dark Knight, the colorful and optimistic heroes of the golden age, including Aquaman, were either altered or mocked.

The Early Days of Modern Comic Book Adaptations

In the aftermath of the success of films like The Dark Knight, it became the norm for superhero movies to adopt a darker and more realistic tone. This shift left classic superheroes like Aquaman struggling to connect with modern audiences. It was widely believed that the nostalgia for the golden age of comics was a thing of the past, and that audiences preferred grittier, more grounded portrayals of heroes. However, these beliefs have proven to be misguided.

The Power of Returning to the Roots

James Wan, known for his solid debut with the horror film Saw, has proven that the classic heroes can still captivate audiences. His recent approach to directing Aquaman is a return to the origins, focusing on the adventures of pirates, lost civilizations of crab people, and battling sea monsters. Wan's approach does not reimagines the classic hero, but rather restores him to his roots. By doing so, he is breathing new life into the characters and ensuring that they remain relevant and entertaining for modern audiences.

The Impact on the DCEU

The success of this approach bodes well for the future of the DCEU. After the firings and controversies surrounding Zack Snyder, there were doubts about the franchise's direction. However, with a director like James Wan, who understands the value of returning to origins, the DCEU can experience a new era of classic heroes that resonate with audiences. His approach is not just a bold move but a crucial step in reviving the charm and excitement of the early comic book golden age.

Conclusion

James Wan's approach to directing Aquaman proves that the classic heroes still hold significant appeal. By returning to the origins, he is not only restoring Aquaman but also revitalizing the broader DC Extended Universe. If the DCEU continues to embrace this approach, it has the potential to regain its former glory, connecting with audiences in a meaningful and entertaining way.