EMPEROR AQUAMAN #21 (DC COMICS)
There is Blood in the water.
Ever since Aquaman came back from DC K.O., he has lead a bold movement to expand the empire of the Blue. This has drawn he attention of his enemies to form an unholy alliance.
The Crimson Queen. Ocean Master. Black Manta.
All formidable on their own. Unified with others? Terrifying what they can do. Add in more rogues and the Kingdom of Atlantis is in grave peril!
EMPEROR AQUAMAN #21 by Jeremy Adams, John Timms, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics) starts “The Tidal War!”
Let’s take a closer look at how this event begins!
EMPEROR AQUAMAN #21 by Jeremy Adams, John Timms, Rex Lokus, & Dave Sharpe (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Adams gives Arthur Curry a high-stakes battle for the ages in this opening set-up. Long time readers of this series have watched as his enemies have moved in silence under the hateful eyes of Lolanna. Curry’s awareness of his growing power steers his self-reflections. Watching his journey now take him into deep space is a prime example of how far his levels have raised. It takes a backseat to the unified front heading for the capital City.
Readers watch as the enemies storm the gates with no regards. The pages get anxious as each move is made with dangerous intentions behind them. This allows Mera to attempt a defensive attack with mixed results. Ocean Master’s ruthlessness takes hold as his attempts to grab Andrina fly with great force. The action speeds through many encounters while ushering in Lolanna’s agenda. Her confrontation with Mera is venomous as the pressure to fight becomes overwhelming. It leads to a showstopping conclusion for that segment. As for Arthur Curry? His journey takes a most unexpected turn which will challenge him on a whole new level. Can’t ask for much more than this for an opening event chapter.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Timms & Lokus begin with a stern look of Aquaman contemplating what’s next. His half panel jump puts him on a path of discovery. It’s upended by a sensational two page splash of the Atlantis takeover. Pacing speeds up to present the high stakes action. The quieter panels with Andrina, Jarro and Zan present a break between action sequences. Readers see how the break is temporary a half panel shows more threats arriving. One key matchup gets a full page intro to begin their fight. The image extends the pressure stakes which the event is riding on for more marque match-up.
There is plenty of superhero hijinks ensuing to get the audience locked in for what’s unfolding. Factor Sharpe’s letting into the panels and each strike carries an intense feel to it. The only time the story really slows down is during Mera’s confrontation with Lolanna. Her expressions reflect that of a queen who knows she has lost her kingdom. It’s presented with sadness and poise, right down to single tears. This moves events into the close where a strong full image brings in another powerful factor. Readers are left with one uneasy vision to show how fast the tides have turned. Great visuals to start this event off right with.
FINAL GRADE: 9
War has come to Atlantis and is taking no prisoners in this strong opening round. Adams pushes the conflict to dangerous levels with the writing. Timms, Lokus & Sharpe craft an explosive action sequence everywhere you turn! “The Tidal War” is a sure-fire, can’t miss event!
Let me know your thoughts on EMPEROR AQUAMAN #21 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
