For better or worse, the first Aquaman movie fully embraced its comic book roots, with larger-than-life performances, exaggerated characterizations, cheesy dialogue, and some inventive, unforgettable imagery - including one infamous (or iconic, depending on who you ask) shot of an octopus playing the bongos.
Director James Wan has previously revealed that Topo - who was actually introduced in the comics along with Arthur Curry's seahorse steed Storm - will be back for The Lost Kingdom, and during a new interview with Empire, the filmmaker confirmed that the eight-legged drum-freak will have a much bigger role in the sequel.
“Topo is a real character in this one! In the comic, he’s a big part of Arthur’s life – a sidekick, pet, friend. So, we’re leaning into that.”
Though Topo will mostly be brought to life with CGI, other methods were employed to ensure Jason Momoa had genuine on-screen chemistry with his cephalopod pal.
“I love the relationship Jason has built with this octopus. It was really fun to watch him ‘act’ with Topo,” adds Wan. “Sometimes we would have an actor standing in by ‘muppeting’ a goofy stick puppet – watching Jason play off that was so funny. I think people are going to enjoy Arthur and Topo’s relationship.”
Early word on Aquaman 2 has not been overly positive, but even if it does somehow manage to replicate the success of the first film, a threequel is highly unlikely with the DCU relaunch looming. Momoa may stick around... but not as Arthur Curry!
"Having failed to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta, still driven by the need to avenge his father’s death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all. This time Black Manta is more formidable than ever before, wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident, which unleashes an ancient and malevolent force. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisoned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they must set aside their differences in order to protect their kingdom and save Aquaman’s family, and the world, from irreversible destruction.
All returning to the roles they originated, Jason Momoa plays Arthur Curry/Aquaman, no, after w balancing his duties as both the King of Atlantis and a new father; Patrick Wilson is Orm, Aquaman’s half-brother and his nemesis, who must now step into a new role as his brother’s reluctant ally; Amber Heard is Mera, Atlantis’ Queen and mother of the heir to the throne; Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is Black Manta, committed more than ever to avenge his father’s death by destroying Aquaman, his family and Atlantis; and Nicole Kidman as Atlanna, a fierce leader and mother with the heart of a warrior. Also reprising their roles are Dolph Lundgren as King Nereus and Randall Park as Dr. Stephen Shin."
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is set to swim into theaters on December 20.