EMPEROR AQUAMAN #20 (DC COMICS)

“No one being should have all this power”

That is the consensus concerning Arthur Curry. After being connected with the Blue is ways unimaginable, Aquaman has a bold plan to further his reach throughout the universe. With all this power, can a man handle being a god?

The current God of the Seas says no.

EMPEROR AQUAMAN #20 by Jeremy Adams, John Timms, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics) sees POSEIDON face off against Aquaman!

Let’s get ringside for all the action.

EMPEROR AQUAMAN #20 by Jeremy Adams, John Timms, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Adams delivers a very straight-forward heavyweight bout for this chapter. Poseidon’s declaration comes across with much gravatas to open events. It’s answered in kind by Curry, who’s refusing to back down. Their banter keeps escalating till it reaches a breaking point. Once here, the writing is done playing nice between these two. It is full speed ahead for a brawl for the ages.

Readers can’t help but be swept up in the action. It allows Curry to let loose in certain areas. Fans will see some unique styles involving trident combat. The writing also ties into some classic Aquaman themes for certain attacks. Adams doesn’t let up on the constant pressure of the bout. Both characters push limits with each move. It garners worldwide speculation to the outcome. As events tread into the closing act, more new looks are placed into play. This allows Curry to tear more loose before a true winner is declared. The aftermath pays a great compliment to the winner while foreshadowing more problems on the horizon. Popcorn fun in all the best ways.

READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!

Timms & Lokus open with a full shot of Poseidon holding court over Aquaman and company. His presence comes across larger than life. While others look worried, Curry never seems phased. This presents a solid back and forth look. A great split face panel sees the titans ready to throw down. Even with the deck stacked against him, Aquaman is brooding with confidence as the fight is about to commence.

Once events begin, panels move at a very fast speed. Each image conveys the spectacle of of a hero fighting a literal god. The full page “throwback” moment is a great touch to the frantic combat taking place. Another great stand-off page gets the full page treatment. It is followed by another series of full shots before a change of scenery takes place. An amazing two page spread brings the climax of the fight to readers. In its’ wake, the panels feel reflective while keeping the audience guessing. A solid display after all the action.

FINAL GRADE: 8.6

Poseidon vs. Aquaman…get ready to rumble! Adams pens a rock’em, sock’em showdown for the ages. Timms and Lokus go from broke with sensational action sequences. A thrilling look at the evolution of Arthur Curry! Don’t miss it!

Let me know your thoughts on EMPEROR AQUAMAN #20 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!