James Wan's "Aquaman" might be the next critically successful film in the DC Extended Universe after "Wonder Woman," if the early reviews are anything to go by.
A test screening has reportedly taken place at Warner Bros.' lot recently. While attendees are usually required to remain tight-lipped about everything they saw, Batman News is claiming that its initial reception is looking pretty good, with some praising its solid action and emotional core.
"So far two different sources told me they loved #Aquaman! There's tons of action but it's a very emotional movie as well," the publication shared on Twitter.
In an article, Batman News also described "Aquaman" as tonally similar to Pat Jenkins' "Wonder Woman." There is humor, drama, and, this being Wan's film, some horror elements as well.
Other things the site revealed include the appearance of the race of evil creatures called the Trench and the absence of "Justice League's" giant air bubbles. Apparently, Atlanteans and other sea-dwelling people just "talk normally" underwater. Jason Momoa, who plays the titular hero, sports the classic Aquaman costume from the comics too.
As for the other characters, Patrick Wilson's Ocean Master/Orm serves as the main big bad and Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) is reportedly the secondary one. Amber Heard's Mera, although commonly expected as a love interested, becomes more of a "co-lead."
Of course, such reactions should be taken with a grain of salt. There have been a number of movies with similar pre-release reactions that did not turn out so great. Fans can only hope that would not be the case with "Aquaman."
News of the film's positive initial reviews comes after Dolph Lundgren (King Nereus) confirmed some changes in his character's relationship with Mera. Unlike in the comics where they are betrothed to each other, the two will be father and daughter in the big screen adaptation.
"Aquaman" opens in theaters on Dec. 21.
