Did You Know These 10 Things About ‘Aquaman’?
When ‘Aquaman’ premiered in 2018, it made a splash as one of the most visually stunning and ambitious films in the DC Extended Universe. Directed by James Wan and starring Jason Momoa, the movie followed Arthur Curry’s journey from reluctant outcast to rightful King of Atlantis. Blending superhero adventure with fantasy and undersea mythology, it brought a fresh, colorful tone to DC’s cinematic lineup.
The film became a massive global hit, praised for its world-building, action sequences, and Momoa’s charismatic take on the iconic DC hero. Here are ten things you might not know about ‘Aquaman’.
Jason Momoa’s Casting Redefined the Character
Traditionally, Aquaman was portrayed as a blond, clean-cut hero in comics and cartoons.
Jason Momoa’s rugged, Polynesian-inspired portrayal gave the character a modern edge and helped transform his public image from a punchline to a fan favorite.
James Wan Wanted It to Feel Like a Fantasy Epic
Director James Wan approached the film as an underwater adventure that blended superhero action with fantasy storytelling.
He drew inspiration from films like ‘Indiana Jones’ and ‘The Lord of the Rings’ to give the movie a grand, mythic feel.
The Underwater Scenes Were Filmed on Land
Rather than filming underwater, actors performed their scenes on dry soundstages using wire rigs and blue screens.
Special effects teams later added flowing hair, bubbles, and light refraction to simulate the ocean environment.
Amber Heard Played Mera, Warrior Princess of Xebel
Amber Heard portrayed Mera, a powerful water-bending warrior and Arthur’s ally.
Her abilities and independence made her one of the strongest female leads in the DCEU.
The Film Introduced a Fully Realized Atlantis
‘Aquaman’ depicted Atlantis as a technologically advanced civilization split into multiple undersea kingdoms.
Each kingdom had its own creatures, architecture, and culture, helping expand the DC universe’s visual world.
Patrick Wilson Played Orm, the Ocean Master
Patrick Wilson portrayed Orm, Arthur’s half-brother and the main antagonist, who sought to unite the underwater kingdoms against the surface world.
His motivations, driven by environmental anger and pride, made him a layered and relatable villain.
Black Manta Was Introduced as a Secondary Villain
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II played David Kane, also known as Black Manta, a pirate seeking revenge on Aquaman.
Though not the central villain, his role set up a deeper rivalry for future installments.
Nicole Kidman Played Queen Atlanna
Nicole Kidman took on the role of Arthur’s mother, Queen Atlanna, who defied Atlantean tradition to love a human.
Her presence added emotional depth and helped anchor the story’s family themes.
The Visual Effects Team Created Entire Ecosystems
Over 2,300 visual effects shots were used to bring Atlantis and its creatures to life.
The film’s rich colors, bioluminescent lighting, and fantastical designs helped it stand out from other superhero movies.
It Became the Highest-Grossing DC Film at the Time
‘Aquaman’ earned over $1.15 billion worldwide, becoming the first DCEU film to cross the billion-dollar mark.
Its success proved that even one of DC’s most underestimated heroes could command a global audience.
What fact about ‘Aquaman’ did you find the most surprising? Share your thoughts in the comments!
