Aquaman 2: Release date, cast and plot for Jason Momoa sequel

Of course, a lot has changed in the world of DC movies since then, and this film is now set to be the last hurrah of the DC Extended Universe before James Gunn arrives to reboot the franchise with Superman: Legacy in 2025.

Momoa is joined by a number of other big names in the cast, with Patrick Wilson, Nicole Kidman, Dolph Lundgren, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Amber Heard among those to reprise their roles from last time out.

In our review, we described Aquaman and the Lost Kindom as "a serviceable slice of comic book nonsense" – but what is the film actually about? And when is it showing in UK cinemas? Read on for everything you need to know about Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom release date

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is now showing in UK cinemas, having been released on Thursday 21st December 2023 – just in time for a festive trip to the movies.

The sequel had previously been set for a December 2022 release date, and then 17th March 2023, but was moved for a number of reasons largely to do with COVID-19 production delays in the visual effects department, according to Variety.

Aquaman 2 plot

The film sees Arthur Curry reunite with his brother Orm (Patrick Wilson) as he prepares to once again face off against the same villain as last time – Yahya Abdul-Mateen II's Black Manta.

An official synopsis reads: "After failing to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta wields the power of the mythic Black Trident to unleash an ancient and malevolent force.

"Hoping to end his reign of terror, Aquaman forges an unlikely alliance with his brother, Orm, the former king of Atlantis. Setting aside their differences, they join forces to protect their kingdom and save the world from irreversible destruction."

Aquaman recap

Set some time after 2017’s Justice League, Aquaman saw Arthur attempt to claim his destiny as the King of Atlantis from his brother-turned-foe Orm.

Hell-bent on igniting a war between those above and below sea level, Orm enlisted the help of Black Manta to seal his place above the other underwater kings as the Ocean Master. The only hope being, if Arthur, always reluctant to recognise his responsibility, usurp his half-brother as the rightful King. Doing this meant acquiring the lost Trident of Atlan, an ancient relic that can only be wielded by the true king of the sea. With it, Arthur was able to rally the support of all forces threatening the overworld and turn them against Orm.

However, in a post-credits scene a recovering Black Manta swore his revenge, so we doubt this is the last we've heard of that storyline.

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Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom trailer

If you're still undecided about whether to go and see the film – or perhaps just want your appetite whetted a little more before going – you can check out the trailer for the film below:

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is now showing in UK cinemas. Check out more of our Film coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight.

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