“I’m called to serve, to be a light in the darkness, to guide people home, no matter what” – Tom Curry
In Aquaman #3 by Jeremy Adams and John Timms, Aquaman is within striking distance of his kingdom, but the deadly allure of a siren’s song threatens to pull him under. Meanwhile, a new villain emerges alongside a dangerous crew of mer-mercenaries as Lori Lemaris conducts her deep-sea hunt. Can Arthur resist temptation, or will he lose everything? Let’s find out!
We begin in young Arthur’s past at the Amnesty Bay lighthouse. He retreats to the tower, troubled by classmates mocking his father’s “lazy” job, just as a lightning strike plunges them into darkness. Shifting to the present, Aquaman, Arion, and Vivienne climb a massive ice wall with Arthur, frustrated by their cryptic prophecy talk. Lord Dagon, an elder god seeking a worthy vessel, observes them and dispatches mermaid assassins to capture Arthur. Revealing herself to be a blacksmith, Vivienne declared her intent to arm Arthur against Dagon.
Weary of riddles, Arthur demands answers: who is Dagon, and why did he seize Atlantis? A history lesson follows, detailing the DC Universe’s creation: order and chaos, the Green Lantern’s power, Swamp Thing, and the elemental Blue, the magical water of life. While Vivienne forges a weapon, Lori, a mermaid assassin, attacks Arthur, taking him. The past echoes as young Arthur and his father relight the lighthouse with an oil lamp, reminding him of his duty to guide others. In the present, a captive Aquaman is transported across space destined for Lord Dagon’s grasp.
Credits: DC Comics
Jeremy Adams and John Timms are building a rich, contemporary Aquaman story that dives deep into his world. The opening dialogue between young Arthur and his father is particularly powerful. It captures the raw vulnerability of childhood doubt, and Adams handles it with real sensitivity. It’s a reminder that heroism isn’t always glamorous; sometimes, it’s about the quiet, essential work that keeps society afloat.
I’m always thrilled when writers expand on the DC Universe’s intricate cosmology, and Adams’ subtle tweaks to established lore are fantastic. The concept that the energies powering Green Lantern, Swamp Thing, Aquaman, and others are interconnected is genuinely exciting. Lord Dagon is a formidable adversary with his colossal size, menacing presence, and otherworldly design. His striking purple hue amplifies his sheer scale and menace.
John Timms continues to deliver exceptional artwork. His Aquaman is a commanding figure, both powerful and regal. Credit also goes to Adams’ writing, which portrays Arthur’s inner turmoil with nuance. Despite being lost and frustrated, he maintains a composed exterior, but Timms subtly conveys the underlying worry that he might fail. It’s excellent character work. Timms’ art vividly renders this desolate yet strangely alive world. The detailed set pieces, like the lake, the portal, and the visual representation of the DC cosmology’s formation, are stunning. However, while the story holds promise, the exposition has been restrained. Even after three issues, some key parts of the story remain frustratingly vague.
Credits: DC Comics
Rex Lokus’s rich, blended colors are fundamental to the book’s immersive feel, masterfully weaving oranges, greens, and blues. Timms and letterer Dave Sharpe create an immediately tense opening. Timms’s lightning-struck lighthouse design is visually arresting, while Sharpe’s visceral ‘CRASH!’ and the ominous ‘HOOOORMM’ of the foghorn establish a powerful atmosphere.
Aquaman #3 deepens the mystery of Lord Dagon’s threat and Aquaman’s connection to the DCU’s cosmic energies while showcasing strong character work and visually stunning art. However, a slow narrative progression leaves readers with questions and a stagnant feeling.
‘Aquaman’ #3 Review: The Light in the Darkness
Aquaman #3 deepens the mystery of Lord Dagon’s threat and Aquaman’s connection to the DCU’s cosmic energies while showcasing strong character work and visually stunning art. However, a slow narrative progression leaves readers with questions and a stagnant feeling.
