EMPEROR AQUAMAN #17 (DC COMICS)
The new stat quo for Arthur Curry is ambitious to put it mildly.
After taking over the Lighthouse from the Crimson Queen, Curry has wasted no time in attempting to set up more places of refuge. This hasn’t come without opposition.
There’s also his arch nemesis lurking in the shadows. BLACK MANTA has returned and this does not bode well for the Emperor!
EMPEROR AQUAMAN #17 by Jeremy Adams, John Timms, Paolo Villanelli, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics) pushes the Lighthouse Initiative forward for another round of action.
Let’s take a closer look at what happens now.
EMPEROR AQUAMAN #17 by Jeremy Adams, John Timms, Paolo Villanelli, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Adams pushes Curry into a very uncomfortable situation in his latest expansion. Before that commences, Lolanna’s trek to find Manta teases more trouble in the water. Their dialogue is cold as Manta grows tired of the Crimson Queen. Her indecent proposal is left to ponder as events shift to Atlantis. Mera’s talk with Vivienne and Lori shows the concern she has for Arthur’s plans. This creates more uncertainty as events finally arrive to Aquaman’s doorstep.
Readers watch as he has an unlikely sidekick for this mission. Jarro proves an overbearing problem trying to help. Their mission leads to a dark portion of the universe. Curry’s plans get thrown out the window as the attack slowly rolls out. Readers watch as a drastic move proves to be a pivoting point as a new evil emerges. This causes a drastic action to take place. The writing shows how a question of ethics takes hold of Curry’s crew. Its aftermath leaves a chilling reality in its wake. The closing dialogue leaves readers something to ponder as Curry’s plan is not so sound as he would love it to be.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Timms & Villanelli split art duties on this chapter. Villanelli opens up events in a loud way. The full shot of Manta sitting on his throne sends shockwaves. Lolanna’s scheming is clearly written on her face. This leads to a solid reflective panel to conclude her portion of the issue. An excellent two page splash welcomes readers to Atlantis. Mera’s doubts come into full focus as she talks with Vivienne and Lori. The art locks in on the puzzlement right before turning over reigns to Timms for the main event.
Jarro’s detail is absolutely incredible as he meets up with Curry. The close up of his eye tells much as the danger comes to the forefront. A strong full page image shows a unique mash-up as more threats come into play. Lokus’ coloring takes hold of panels as the space magic begins. Readers watch as the alien attack leads to a bold reaction. The full page reveal is a shocking one. It quickly gets topped by a panic response. Panels fill with the intense move and deadly fallout. It leaves with a somber reflection of what this new role will cost Curry. Jury is out if he can pay the price.
FINAL GRADE: 8.7
The crown is heavy as the emperor is forced to make a costly choice.. Adams pushes Curry into a moral dilemma with the writing. The art team excels in building the drama to a fever pitch. A new tide has hit the DCU and this emperor looks to conquer!
Let me know your thoughts on EMPEROR AQUAMAN #17 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
