EMPEROR AQUAMAN #19 (DC COMICS)
As Aquaman acquires more powers, he also gains more problems.
His enhanced abilities are causing some concern amongst his fellow heroes. This is complicated even further by the return of Lolanna. Mera’s demented mother is doing some recruiting for her cause. Heavy is the crown indeed.
EMPEROR AQUAMAN #19 by Jeremy Adams, Paolo Villanelli, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics) puts Arthur Curry at odds with some close friends.
Let’s take a closer look at where events stand now.
EMPEROR AQUAMAN #19 by Jeremy Adams, Paolo Villanelli, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Adams opens with the epilogue for the team-up with Hal Jordan. Their banter is more serious than casual. Jordan has now seen first hand what Curry is capable of. His reaction leaves the door open for a few other people to get their say in. Readers watch as Batman and Wonder Woman demand to hold court with the King. It provides a pivot point to send events to Mera. Where her calm moments discover more in the water, the story sinks into very dark territory.
The discovery of Lolanna’s squad proves to spark the conflict. Readers watch as Mera is now thrown into a clash she cannot win. It cements how deadly Lolanna’s plan can be if all the egos buy in for it. They know the Aquaman they’ve fought before isn’t the current King. The JL knows this as well. Their questioning strikes a chord in Arthur’s uncertainty. It serves as a solid point to move into a more frantic last stand for Mera. Pacing is sped up to allow the moment to have more gravity. The fight concludes with an unlikely party joining the fray. It leaves readers with a showdown in waiting that will test Aquaman like never before. Solid writing all around.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Villanelli & Lokus open with a full page image of Arthur and Hal reflecting on what happened. There are hints of concern between both before Jordan departs. In his wake, a full shot of Batman and Wonder Woman appear to talk with Curry about recent events. The stern looks indicate what frustration has been occurring in Curry’s actions. Panels switch to Mera enjoying a brief moment of peace before stumbling onto a secret meeting.
The full page of Lolanna holding court gives readers a glimpse of the problem lying in wait. Mera’s reactions show the worry slowly taking over. Another full shot shows their cover being blown as Mera is attacked. This ignites some huge action sequences moving Mera into the heart of danger. It is a far cry from Arthur’s interrogation. The full shot of the League starting with wonder at Curry shows the concern over what he has become. It provides a great pivot point back to Mera’s fight to survive. The art team amps up the combat to a strong close. This ushers in the final pages. The last one is a full shot for the ages in which no one is ready for.
FINAL GRADE: 8.7
Lolanna’s plans start taking shape as Arthur Curry needs to answer to the Justice League. Adams’ writing gives a healthy dose of action. The art team gives Mera’s battle for survival a kinetic feel. Is the DCU ready for this version of Arthur Curry? Only one way to find out!
Let me know your thoughts on EMPEROR AQUAMAN #19 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
