Aquaman is a cornerstone of the DC Universe, and he’s been making waves since 1941. Created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger, Aquaman first appeared in “More Fun Comics #73,” and has been a part of the superhero landscape ever since.
Aquaman has been a butt of jokes for many years. However, things began to change dramatically in recent decades, catapulting him from a somewhat underestimated superhero to a mainstream powerhouse. Remember Jason Momoa’s trident-wielding, tattooed iteration? Yeah, that helped too!
So, why explore the best Aquaman comics, you ask? Well, for starters, we’re about to deep-dive into the crème de la crème of Aquaman comics. These aren’t just any comics – these are the quintessential story arcs, the game-changing narratives, and the must-reads whether you’re a diehard fan or a curious newbie.
We’ll talk about history, supporting characters, and even politics — underwater politics, to be exact. So fasten your seatbelts, or should I say, secure your oxygen tanks? The dive begins now!
Best Aquaman Comics in 2023
1. Aquaman Vol. 1: The Trench (The New 52)
The Return of the King
The New 52 reboot was a game-changing event for many DC characters, but perhaps none benefited more than Aquaman. Geoff Johns, who’s no stranger to revitalizing tired heroes, took the reins for “Aquaman Vol. 1: The Trench,” released in 2013. Partnered with illustrators Ivan Reis and Joe Prado, Johns turned the tide on Aquaman’s somewhat shaky reputation.
A Dive into Deep Waters
The storyline dives into darker territories, introducing a new threat known as “The Trench,” creatures from the ocean’s abyss. This serves as a critical moment for Arthur Curry, showcasing his power and influence both under the sea and above it. The plot tightly blends horror and action, underscoring Aquaman’s responsibility to protect both realms.
The Critics Speak
With a 4.6 rating from over 900 reviews, the comic proves to be a must-read. Its cutting-edge revival and top-tier creative team have earned its status as a modern Aquaman classic.
2. Aquaman: 80 Years of the King of the Seven Seas
A Timeless Journey
If you’re looking to deep-dive into the history of Aquaman, this hardcover edition released in 2023 is the ticket. Edited by some of the biggest names in comics like Whitney Ellsworth and Len Wein, this collection spans Aquaman’s existence from his debut to contemporary iterations.
The Stories That Made The King
This compilation covers a wide array of stories, from his initial appearance in “More Fun Comics #73” to the modern classics by Geoff Johns. It showcases Aquaman’s evolution and how the character has been shaped by multiple creative minds.
Stellar Ratings
The anthology boasts a 4.9 rating and gives readers an expansive look into the heroic exploits and personal conflicts faced by Aquaman over the years.
3. Aquaman: Andromeda
Cosmic-Horror and The Ocean Depths
Slated for November 2023, Ram V and Christian Ward are teaming up to give Arthur Curry a psychological twist in “Aquaman: Andromeda.” This new storyline brings a cosmic-horror sensibility, set in a deep-sea spaceship graveyard known as Point Nemo.
What Lies Beneath
Here, Aquaman is pitted against not only his traditional foe Black Manta but also against a non-human structure that is mysteriously awakening. The comic takes the reader on a psychological rollercoaster, offering a fresh, suspenseful angle on the character.
Early Reviews
Even though it hasn’t been released yet, the comic holds a 4.5 rating based on early reviews, promising a story that could break even a king.
4. Aquaman by Geoff Johns Omnibus
A Royal Epic
This Omnibus is an all-in-one feast for Aquaman enthusiasts. Released in 2018, it’s a consolidation of Geoff Johns’ trailblazing stories and covers the hero’s journey in reclaiming his Atlantean throne and his role in the Justice League.
The Clash of Worlds
In this collection, Aquaman faces off against his past and the lurking darkness that threatens both of his worlds. This narrative complexity adds layers to the character, making him more than just a ruler of the oceans but a symbol of unity between two contrasting realms.
High Ratings
Holding a 4.8 rating, this Omnibus is a staple for any Aquaman or comic book fan, as it is an exhaustive examination of a hero caught between worlds.
5. Aquaman: Underworld Deluxe Edition
Subterranean Struggles
Released in 2018, writer Dan Abnett and illustrator Stjepan Sejic take Aquaman to the gritty underbelly of Atlantis in “Aquaman: Underworld.” Arthur Curry gets entangled in a rebel alliance in this narrative, adding political depth to his character.
A Kingdom Divided
The story reveals civil unrest that is brewing in Atlantis, adding a layer of complexity and intrigue to the underwater kingdom. With new characters like Dolphin, the plot explores the dichotomies between leadership and servitude, governance, and anarchy.
Critical Acclaim
Boasting a 4.7 rating, this Deluxe Edition offers an engaging, thought-provoking experience and comes packed with bonus material for the fans.
Each of these comics offers a unique take on Aquaman, extending far beyond his ‘fish-whisperer’ reputation. Whether it’s a revival, an anthology, a psychological thriller, a royal epic, or a political drama, Aquaman’s depths are seemingly endless. These comics affirm that he’s not just a king but a versatile, enduring character in the world of superheroes.
The Genesis of Aquaman
1941 was a year that not only marked a period of immense global upheaval but also gave birth to our King of the Seven Seas. When artists Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger first sketched out Aquaman, the world was in the throes of World War II.
Originally envisioned as the son of an undersea explorer who discovered Atlantis, Aquaman initially had abilities like super-strength and telepathic communication with sea life.
Aquaman was not an instant megastar like Superman or Batman. He was often relegated to backup stories in anthology comics. But he was intriguing, a bridge between the human world and the mysteries of the ocean. As the years passed, however, the character slowly but surely gained traction.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, during what is known as the Silver Age of comics, Aquaman got his own series. The storytelling became more complex, his origin story got revamped, and the fantastical realm of Atlantis was increasingly brought into the narrative. Think Shakespearean drama but with more fish and a lot less gravity!
A cornerstone event was the “Death of a Prince” storyline that ran from 1976-1977. This was not your typical Saturday morning cartoon Aquaman – it was a mature, devastating narrative that led to the death of Aquaman’s son.
It was darker and grittier and showed that Aquaman could carry weighty storylines. This was a seismic shift in the portrayal of a character that many still saw as a one-note superhero.
Evolution of the Character
Aquaman’s evolution is a whirlpool of constant transformation, ebbing and flowing through various phases of comic book history. Let’s set sail through the Golden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern eras to see how our King of the Seven Seas has been reimagined, revitalized, and reborn.
Back in the Golden Age, Aquaman was a rather simple character – a superhero who could breathe underwater and talk to fish. Neat, sure, but not exactly the stuff of legends. Fast forward to the Silver Age, and voilà! Aquaman’s story began to flesh out like never before.
His origin story was revamped to incorporate his Atlantean heritage, and his powers became grander and more majestic. A son of a lighthouse keeper and an Atlantean queen, Arthur Curry was born a half-human, half-Atlantean hybrid, adding a layer of complexity to his identity.
Then came the Bronze Age, a time when storytelling in comics reached new depths — both literally and metaphorically. Storylines like “Death of a Prince” shifted the narrative tone towards darker, more mature themes. Aquaman was no longer just a man in orange and green spandex – he was a king, a father, and a hero with weighty responsibilities.
The Modern Age of comics blew the barnacles off the old Aquaman lore, bringing about revolutionary arcs like “The Atlantis Chronicles” and “Throne of Atlantis.” Writers like Peter David and Geoff Johns transformed Aquaman into a multi-faceted character, dealing with political intrigue, ecological disasters, and complex interpersonal relationships. Oh, and let’s not forget the legendary hook hand and the warrior-like beard — talk about a glow-up!
Aquaman’s Universe: The Realm of Atlantis
The City Itself: More than a Backdrop
Let’s begin by talking about Atlantis as a location. Far from being a mere backdrop, Atlantis is a rich, dynamic setting that’s almost a character in itself. This submerged metropolis teems with life and culture, combining elements of both ancient tradition and advanced technology. Picture grand coral palaces and high-tech plasma shields; this is not your ordinary kingdom under the sea.
Politics and Social Dynamics: A Sea of Complexity
The political undertones in Aquaman comics are as turbulent as the ocean tides. Atlantis often finds itself torn between isolationism and integration with the surface world. Story arcs like “Throne of Atlantis” delve into the geopolitics of this underwater realm, illustrating how Aquaman has to navigate through not just sea monsters but also diplomatic minefields.
The kingdom reflects a complex socio-political environment that adds layers of intricacy to Aquaman’s responsibilities as a king.
Lesser-Known Regions: The Trench, Xebel, and More
Within Atlantis, some areas are less explored but rich in storytelling potential. The Trench, a horrifying abyss filled with sea monsters, offers a stark contrast to the otherwise glorious city of Atlantis. Xebel, originally a penal colony and the birthplace of Mera, adds yet another dimension to the already intricate Atlantean lore.
Summary: Atlantis as an Identity
In essence, Atlantis is more than just a setting — it’s an identity. It provides a complex backdrop for an equally complex character, enriching the stories while serving as a mirror to Aquaman’s dual nature. Its social, political, and even geographical aspects make it an integral part of the Aquaman saga.
Major Story Arcs and Events
Ancient Histories: “The Atlantis Chronicles”
We begin our journey with “The Atlantis Chronicles,” a seminal work by Peter David that delves into the ancient history of Atlantis. This miniseries is a narrative feast, offering a rich tapestry of lore, legend, and familial drama that sets the stage for many Aquaman stories to come.
Emotional Depths: “The Search for Mera”
Silver Age stories like “The Search for Mera” do more than just entertain – they humanize our aquatic hero. This arc is a poignant exploration of love and loss, proving that the emotional depths Aquaman plunges into can be as captivating as any sea voyage. Mera isn’t just a damsel in distress – she’s an integral part of the emotional core of the story.
Modern Complexity: “Throne of Atlantis”
Enter Geoff Johns’ modern classic, “Throne of Atlantis.” This New 52 storyline shatters the notion of Aquaman as a lesser hero by pitting him against the Justice League itself.
But the real gem here is the political turmoil — Aquaman is caught between his loyalty to Atlantis and his responsibilities to the surface world, showcasing the complexities of his character like never before.
Crossovers and Broader Influence: “Infinite Crisis” and “Brightest Day”
Aquaman doesn’t only stick to his aquatic neighborhood. Crossover events like “Infinite Crisis” and “Brightest Day” prove that Aquaman can hold his own alongside the other titans of the DC Universe. These events serve as pivotal moments, helping to integrate Aquaman’s story into the larger tapestry of DC lore.
Summary: More than Just High Tides
The major story arcs and events in Aquaman’s history serve as the pillars that elevate him from a simple sea-dwelling hero to a complex character with a universe all his own. From emotional storytelling to political drama, these arcs cover a broad spectrum, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in the world of Aquaman.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The Laughing Stock to the Blockbuster Hero
Aquaman had a difficult time escaping the meme machine for years. Remember the Super Friends cartoon? Ah, yes, the era when our sea king was reduced to a guy who talks to fish and rides seahorses. It’s safe to say that Aquaman was often the butt of the joke.
But guess what? He’s had the last laugh. With his blockbuster film in 2018, starring none other than Jason Momoa, Aquaman finally broke through the surface to claim the spotlight. That movie alone made over a billion dollars worldwide.
Pop Culture References: Not Just About the Fish Jokes
From cameo appearances in TV shows like “The Big Bang Theory” to references in video games, Aquaman’s cultural footprint is more expansive than his oceanic domain.
Yes, the fish jokes are a staple, but as Aquaman gained depth and complexity, so did the references. Now, he’s not just the hero who talks to fish — he’s a king, a leader, and a badass who doesn’t need air to breathe or land to rule.
Merchandise and Collectibles: The King’s Treasury
You know a superhero has made it when they have their own action figures, lunchboxes, and high-end collectibles. Aquaman is no exception. Whether it’s Funko Pops or highly detailed statues, the market is awash with Aquaman merchandise, further cementing his place in the pop culture pantheon.
In Retrospect: A Sea Change for Aquaman
The trajectory of Aquaman’s influence on pop culture has been remarkable, to say the least. Once viewed as a laughingstock, the King of the Seven Seas has matured into an emblem of depth and diversity, indicating that he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
Expanded Universe: Diving Beyond the Main Character
Animated Chronicles: More Depth Than You’d Think
While many remember Aquaman from early animated appearances like “Super Friends,” he’s been further developed in later cartoons. Series like “Justice League” and “Young Justice” have given us a more rounded view of this oceanic leader, focusing on his strategic wisdom and governing abilities.
Silver Screen Revolution: A Momoa-Driven Wave
The 2018 “Aquaman” film featuring Jason Momoa was a pivotal point for the character’s perception. Far removed from the clean-cut image of yore, Momoa’s portrayal injected new life, including aspects of action-adventure, love stories, and political intricacies.
Extended Storylines: More than Just Aquaman
Offshoot characters like Mera and Aqualad have expanded the Aquaman universe through their own dedicated comics and narratives. For instance, the independent comic “Mera: Tidebreaker” provides an intriguing glimpse into Mera’s origins and her complex relationship with Aquaman.
Likewise, Aqualad takes center stage in productions like “Young Justice,” where issues of self-discovery and belonging are explored.
Final Thoughts
Aquaman’s universe is as boundless and intricate as the seas he governs, presenting a rich array of narratives that cover a variety of styles, moods, and complexities.
Whether you’re a lifelong aficionado or a newcomer to this maritime monarch, these are some of the best Aquaman comics that offer a comprehensive insight into a hero who is often sidelined but never overshadowed.
The comics range from revolutionary reboots by creators like Geoff Johns to seminal collections, intergalactic horror plots, and narratives focused on political intrigue. They collectively serve as a testament to Aquaman’s multifaceted character.
Every comic provides a distinctive exploration into varied facets of Arthur Curry, cementing his role not merely as a protector of the seas but also as an enthralling, multi-layered persona in the larger DC narrative.
