Losing your family along with your entire kingdom and being whisked away to a weird dimension can take a lot out of a guy. Ask Aquaman – he’d know more than most with these last eight issues. And although the title marches on, writer Jeremy Adams rightfully decides to let his foot off the gas in the latest issue and let us fans witness the fallout from everything that’s happened.
Before the issue starts, we’re treated to a sort of ‘prophecy page’ reminding us of the impending seriousness surrounding Arthur and his new apparent godhood. The page and its colors are a feast for the eyes. Interestingly, it says “Act Two” at the bottom so I can’t help but be curious as to how many acts Adams has planned.
DC
This issue’s story opens up with the funeral for Mera and all the other Atlanteans that were lost in the battle with water demon Dagon. It’s a somber but intense way to open this chapter but offers much needed closure after the shock of losing Mera, Garth, Jackson and many others previously. Arthur commands the wizard Arion to light the pyres as they all walk away and we see that the anger Andrina has may become a big problem later.
DC
After this sad opening, Adams moves things brisquely along and smartly shows us just how powerful Arthur has become. As he and his crew are sailing in Nemo’s Nautilus, Arthur is able to connect to all of The Blue (seemingly all water anywhere) to guide them all back home with precision. The ship shows up in the middle of a Justice League adventure where Superman has been possessed by some evil entity. Aquaman and the Justice League Blue not only subdue Superman, but they also banish whatever it is that had a hold on him. Arthur even takes a punch from Supes and shrugs it off. Adams takes this time to show Zan of the Wonder Twins still being the comedic relief as he pops up in between Batman and Wonder Woman as they stand confused by all of the new developments. Before the book moves on, we also get a charming interaction between Superman and ex-girlfriend mermaid Lori Lemaris.
After debriefing on The Watchtower in orbit and reminiscing in his quarters, Aquaman dives (yes, from space) back down into the ocean. He comes face to face with the restored Atlantis but can’t bring himself to face it. As he turns away, there’s a flash and suddenly…Mera, Garth, Jackson, and baby Andrina appear?! There’s some serious timey-wimey nonsense happening and Jeremy Adams leaves the issue on a perfect cliffhanger.
John Timms provides the art and Rex Lokus the colors and, as usual, this team who has done the majority of the art on this title leave me wanting more. Whether it be stoic scenes or action, the art in Aquaman is a treat for the eyes and has blockbuster quality.
Although I had some issue with the pacing of the previous eight issues, Jeremy Adams expertly sets up the next chapter in his Aquaman run with some expertly crafted drama. Godhood, teen angst, a widower, and the dead being brought back to life? This book has everything and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
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