His well-developed muscles, abs, and brawny figure there are so much more than these characteristics to love about the DC superhero Aquaman. The whole world has witnessed its first-ever live-action last 2018, but movies like AquaMan, Aquaman has an interesting history of more than 75 years that is yet to be understood, appreciated, and adored by a lot of people.
Without further ado, let’s dive into Aquaman’s history!
The Birth of Aquaman
Created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger, the superhero debuted in the comic industry last November 1941 in More Fun Comics #3. This is where Aquaman narrated his own unique story: a son of a sea explorer who discovered Atlantis and was given the right to rule the sea. With his Atlantean knowledge, he formed his son into a “human being who thrives underwater.”
Silver Age: Revamping Aquaman
It was in 1959’s Adventure Comics #260 that the creators refashioned the hero’s story into a more acceptable one. They redesigned the character of Aquaman/Arthur Curry to the hybrid son of Atlanna, an Atlantean who was banished from the sea kingdom, and a lighthouse keeper. The modification of his character eventually became widely accepted by the public.
The Brave and the Bold Debut
Aquaman joined the Justice League as one of its core members in March 1960. He became a regular in the series and tends to appear more than Superman and Batman.
“Super Friends” Debut
The hero became a laughing stock because he was perceived as a superhero with weak powers and abilities in “Super Friends.” The series focused on Arthur’s ability to communicate with sea creatures and his role as Batman and Superman’s great ally whose sole responsibility is to defend the sea.
Modern Age Aquaman: Stronger, Bolder, and Fiercer
In an attempt to make the character stronger and more powerful, the creators re-contextualized his role to a more serious, brooding character compared to his previous personas. It was also during this period when they delved into more details of the Silver Age Aquaman’s origin and his relationship with his half-brother, the Ocean Master.
A New Take on Aquaman
In August 1994, Aquaman graced the comic industry once again, but with a different look. Peter David, the scriptwriter, reimagined Aquaman as a brawny man with fully-grown hair and beard, making it the most badass version of the hero up to date.
Aquaman: Sixth Series
Initially spearheaded by Rick Veitch, it aims to shift the story to a more mystical direction. Its subsequent writers include Will Pfeifer, Tad Williams, John Ostrander, and John Arcudi. The series ran from December 2002, with the storyline focused on Aquaman’s involvement in a fiasco that took place in San Diego. A part of the city was sunk due to a scientist who took a DNA sample from Aquaman to morph the human race into water-breathers.
“Smallville” Stint
In 2005, the teenage version of Arthur Curry graced Smallville’s 5th season. He made various appearances in the show, establishing himself as a trusted ally of Clark Kent.
Aquaman’s Biggest Break
The succeeding years have been fruitful to Aquaman, gracing from one TV series to another. Finally, in 2014, he was set to achieve his much-needed big break when DC announced its upcoming live-action Aquaman film.
Aquaman’s Live-Action Film Debut
Aquaman, now played by Jason Momoa, made his first-ever appearance on the big screen in “Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice” last 2016. It was not much of screen time though, as he only appeared a few seconds, but it surely was enough to hype the fans about the hero’s upcoming live-action film two years later.
Justice League Live-Action Film Appearance
Now with longer airtime, fans were swooned and teased once again as he graced the big screen for the second time around. This is where Arthur decided to join the Batman, The Flash, Wonder Woman, Superman, and Cyborg—together they make the core members of the Justice League.
Aquaman: The One True King
It was in 2018 when Aquaman finally dived in his own live-action film. This story is about his origins and his disputes with the Ocean Master and the Black Manta.
Aquaman’s story continues
With his incredible strength, speed, heightened senses, and agility, Aquaman makes a total package of what it takes to be an admired superhero. Now, Aquaman is about to showcase an even greater superpower as he is scheduled to swim our cinemas again on December 2022 for Aquaman 2.