5 Comic Book Storylines You Should Read Before Seeing Aquaman

Excited fans await the release of the new Aquaman movie in December of this year. Due to Jason Momoa’s top-notch portrayal of the character, Aquaman’s popularity and reputation improved. Before this, Aquaman remained an obscure DC comic book character. Also, he was often subject to jokes and memes. However, the new movie spells redemption to this character. To know more about Aquaman, here are five comic book storylines you should read before seeing the movie.

Volume 7  #0 Underwater

Paul Pelletier/Sean Parsons/Wil Quintana/DC Comics

This comic is the first book of the seventh volume. It explains Arthur’s origins. The comic includes an exploration of Arthur’s family background.  Also, it gives a historical context of the city of Atlantis. Here, Arthur meets a man named Vulko. This man helps Arthur remember the way back to Atlantis.

Volume 7 #1-4 The Trench

Paul Pelletier/Sean Parsons/Wil Quintana/DC Comics

In the first four issues of this volume, Arthur Curry and his wife, Mera decide to live their lives on land. However, a deep-sea threat emerges, threatening innocent lives. Called the ‘Trench,’ these carnivorous species threaten to devour the citizens of Atlantis. As a result, Arthur reprises his superhero role to save Atlantis.

Volume 7 #14-17 & Justice League #15-17

Paul Pelletier/Sean Parsons/Wil Quintana/DC Comics

Atlantis’ king and Arthur’s brother, Ocean Master or Orm, declares war on the surface world after an off-course US Navy Missiles hits Atlantis. In retaliation, Atlantis sends massive tidal waves that hit Boston and Gotham City. After rescuing the Gothamites from drowning, Aquaman tries to restore peace between the surface dwellers and the Atlanteans. However, Orm refuses, beginning the battle.

Volume 5 #0, 1&2

DC Comics

In this three-part storyline, Arthur broods over the loss of his kingdom and his family. Here, he grows a beard and lets his hair grow out. Arthur spends most of his time in the Aquacave, alone. Also, Aquaman loses his left hand, replacing it with the iconic hook. The hook stays in the comics for quite some time.

Volume 7 #35-40

Paul Pelletier/Sean Parsons/Wil Quintana/DC Comics

Arthur rules as Atlantis’ king, but he is off fighting a new enemy known as Chimeras. As a result, Mera takes over for him. However, people within the kingdom conspire against Mera. While the toxicity of politics engulfs Atlantis’ government, Arthur and Mera must prevent the threat of the Chimera from reaching Atlantis.

If you are considering heading to the nearest comic book store, then picking these issues up will be an advantage. Also, we still have a few months left before the movie’s debut, so we have ample time to catch up on these excellent stories. Knowing more about Aquaman not only gives you a head start; it also lets you understand the movie better once you watch it.

Aquaman hits theaters December 14, 2019.