MANILA, Philippines—In “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” director James Wan promises an even grander Atlantis, describing it as “bigger, brighter, more colorful, and more vibrant.” Beyond the familiar underwater city, audiences will explore the Lost Kingdom of Necrus, inspired by the captivating landscape of Antarctica.
Wan expresses excitement about creating this entirely new visual element, along with other unexplored worlds and signature dark creatures.
Despite facing the challenge of bringing Antarctica to life during an English summer at Leavesden Studios, the art department constructed a frozen tundra with ice, hosting Manta’s basecamp. Giant fans simulated snow, creating a surreal setting where crew members in shorts and sunglasses worked alongside cast members in high-tech cold-weather costumes.
To enhance the realism, the VFX team captured aerial drone footage in Antarctica, Greenland, and Iceland, providing the frozen environment’s final touches.
Image Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.
Producer Peter Safran praises James Wan’s ability to capture the vibrant fantasy of unexplored worlds in the sequel, stating it’s worldbuilding and visual storytelling at its zenith. The film promises a thrilling experience, focusing on the human aspects of the characters, particularly the action adventure of brothers Arthur and Orm, played by Jason Momoa and Patrick Wilson, as they unite to save the world.
The story introduces a more formidable Black Manta, played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II. Despite Arthur’s responsibilities as Aquaman, the film delves into his roles as a father and king.
“Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” releasing on December 20, features a star-studded cast, including Amber Heard, Nicole Kidman, Dolph Lundgren, and Randall Park reprising their original roles.
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