James Wan's AQUAMAN Won't Feature Any Other DCU Characters

Jason Mamoa doesn't need any help! Are you kidding me? C'mon. And director James Wan agrees. Usually these days, superhero movies will bring in a supporting cast to borrow their star power for the movie obviously, but also to build excitement for the universe and any ensemble movies - like JUSTICE LEAGUE.

But AQUAMAN will face Black Manta and King Orm without Batman, Superman, et al.

Says Wan: "I wanted to keep the story to the world of AQUAMAN and not have to worry about what other characters are doing in their films and how that would affect us. I just thought the simplest way was to keep it clean — keep it simple and let it be an AQUAMAN story."

He continues: "I told them I understand and respect that it’s part of a bigger universe but at the end of the day I have to tell the story I want to tell, and I want to develop the character as well. It was something the studio was respectful about… in my movie he starts off one way and becomes very different by the end. It’s a classic hero’s journey. I equate our story to The Sword and the Stone, it’s a very Arthurian story about a journey to becoming king."

Perfect! This is a pure James Wan movie. Exactly what I was hoping for - bring it!

Of course, post credit scenes weren't discussed. Sooooo... there's that. Potentially there will be some JUSTICE LEAGUE influence after all.

Here's the movie's storyline:
From Warner Bros. Pictures and director James Wan comes an action-packed adventure that spans the vast, visually breathtaking underwater world of the seven seas, AQUAMAN starring Jason Momoa in the title role. The film reveals the origin story of half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry and takes him on the journey of his lifetime—one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be... a king.

The film also stars Amber Heard ("Justice League," "Magic Mike XXL") as Mera, a firece warrior and Aquaman's ally throughout his journey; Oscarnominee Willem Dafoe ("Platoon," "Spider-Man 2") as Vulko, council to the Atlantean throne; Patrick Wilson ("The Conjuring" films, "Watchmen") as Orm/Ocean Master, the present King of Atlantis; Dolph Lundgren ("The Expendables" films) as Nereus, King of the Atlantean tribe Xebel; Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (upcoming "Baywatch," "Netflix's The Get Down") as the vengeful Black Manta; and Oscar winner Nicole Kidman ("The Hours" "Lion") as Arthrur's mom, Atlanna; as well as Ludi Lin ("Power Rangers") as Captain Murk, Atlantean Commando; and Temuera Morrison ("Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones," "Green Lantern") as Arthur's dad, Tom Curry.

Wan directs from a screenplay by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick ("The Conjuring 2") and Will Beall ("Gangstar Squad," TV's "Training Day"), story by Geoff Johns and James Wan and Will Beal, based on characters from DC, Aquaman created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisnger. the film is produced by Peter Safran and Rob Cowan, with Deborah Snyder, Zack Snyder, Jon Berg, Geoff Johns and Walter Hamada serving as executive producers.

Wan's team behind the scenes includes such frequent collaborators as Oscar-nominated director of photography Don Burgess ("The Conjuring 2," "Forrest Gump"), his five-time editor Kirk Morri ("The Conjuring" films, "Furious 7," the "Insidious" films), and production designer Bill Brzeski ("Furious 7"). They are joined by costume designer Kym Barrett ("The Matrix" trilogy, "The Amazing Spider-Man") and composer Rupert Gregson-Williams ("Wonder Woman").

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If you haven't seen the trailer yet - have a look! Currently at 37 million views:



AQUAMAN opens in theaters on December 21 in IMAX 3D, 3D and flat.

Source: EW

First JUSTICE LEAGUE Trailer Drops!

I'm in Vegas in advance of Cinemacon next week and I'm excited about what's happening here on other fronts. I should be in a position to talk about something soon. Cryptic I know!

Meanwhile, the first trailer for JUSTICE LEAGUE is finally here and while the action and visuals look amazing, and seeing all those characters on the screen together is fascinating, I'm left with worry that there is no story and character development, including the villain.

I'm most intrigued with Wonder Woman and Aquaman, and the fun they can have with The Flash. Also thinking about when Superman makes his appearance in the movie.

However, my instincts tell me that JUSTICE LEAGUE may not deliver that ensemble movie we've been waiting for since Marvel's THE AVENGERS. Whedon pulled off an amazing feat of weaving characters, plot, development and at the same time feeding a franchise toward the Infinity War. While I don't want a photocopy, I hope they can deliver here with these beloved characters.

Here's the movie's storyline:
Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman’s selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists the help of his newfound ally, Diana Prince, to face an even greater enemy. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to find and recruit a team of metahumans to stand against this newly awakened threat. But despite the formation of this unprecedented league of heroes—Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash—it may already be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions.

JUSTICE LEAGUE is slated for a November release.

AQUAMAN May Just Be The Savior Of The DC Cinematic Universe

Batman? Nolan's not directing. Superman? I like Cavill in the role but I'm not completely sold on Snyder's directing him. DC universe? I still haven't seen how they're bringing it all together and I'm worried.

I'll tell you one movie I'm NOT worried about - AQUAMAN. I think DC has swung for the fences and landed a perfect team and the cornerstone is James freakin' Wan. Warner Bros just confirmed that Wan is directing and supervising the script (being written by 300's Kurt Johnstad - another strong move) and I couldn't be more thrilled.

So we have Wan who is arguably the hottest director in Hollywood right now (Furious 7 will soon be 3rd all time behind Cameron's 1-2 punch of AVATAR and TITANIC) and he's prolific - something Cameron does not do (NO, I'm not saying he's better than Cameron. C'mon).

Add in the writing of the militaristic Johnstad (300, 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE, ACT OF VALOR) and you've got the solid backbone of a major hit already.

But now, add in the SOLID casting of Jason Momoa as AQUAMAN himself and the picture is complete. So while I'm standoffish regarding the DC cinematic universe, I'm all in for this movie. I think it will cornerstone the expansion of DC's plans much more so many think and may surprise even the top brass at Warners.

AQUAMAN is slated for a July 27, 2018 release.

Wonder Woman's Origins: Afrodite Easter Egg In Teaser Trailer For BATMAN V. SUPERMAN?

Certainly looks like it. Check the trailer for BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE and take a look at the image - you'll see "Afrodite" scrawled in graffiti on a pillar. I saw it immediately but I wanted to scan the rest of the graffiti first before posting on it. DC seems to love using this medium to plant eggs - I found something similar back in July of last year and I still think Gentleman Ghost will be in this thing or soon (yes I know some may think the initials LF are for Lucius Fox - the gadget guy for Batman; but I don't agree. Why have his initials on a roof vent? Doesn't make sense. Looking For Ghost does makes sense).

Back to the teaser trailer. It's not bad, but they are biting off a LOT for this movie. They are ushering in a new era of Batman, while continuing the story of Superman and probably doing some Aquaman and Wonder Woman origins (Afrodite is a sub-character in her universe - she gives her the gift of beauty. This however opens the door to have other beings bearing gifts as well: Demeter (strength), Athena (wisdom), Hermes (scarves... errr speed and flight), Artemis (eyes of the hunter) and Hestia (truth). It's a lot to effectively convey in one movie for DC. Marvel is used to this kind of thing and have proven themselves. I'm worried that DC can't pull it off effectively.

The movie definitely seems very dark which will set it apart from the Marvel formula, clearly. Personally I believe DC should have went with native 3D for their productions to further classify themselves as innovators and seeking the best for their audience; not followers.

Still all things being said, this is a VERY interesting movie and could be the start of something amazing. Can't wait to see Jason Momoa as Aquaman. Perfectly cast.

BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE opens on March 25, 2016.

Jason Momoa's AQUAMAN Breaks Surface!

There is only one true King. Unite the seven.

I think this is perfect casting and really amplifies my expectations for BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE. Jason Momoa just fits this role. Certainly the character needed presence as with any comic book superhero it can be a stretch to attain suspension of disbelief, but especially for the more marginal heroes and their abilities. Momoa definitely brings presence and the image shows how director Zach Snyder and DC are tackling his costume and weapon of choice.

Brilliant use of tattoos to mimic the traditional Aquaman costume! The tats also bring to mind cultural tattoos from the pacific islands - part of Momoa's heritage (his father is of native Hawaiian descent).

Momoa joins a stellar cast in BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE namely Henry Cavill (Superman), Ben Affleck (Batman), Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman), Jesse Eisenberg (Lex Luther), Jeremy Irons (Alfred), Amy Adams, Diane Lane and Laurence Fishburne.

Aquaman's exposure has been carefully planned and he is expected to have presence in JUSTICE LEAGUE PART ONE (slated for November 17, 2017), AQUAMAN (July 27, 2018) and JUSTICE LEAGUE PART TWO (June 14, 2019).

BATMAN V. SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE is slated for a March 25, 2016 release.

MUST WATCH: New CONAN THE BARBARIAN Teaser Clip Hits!

And HITS HARD! I love it!! And Jason Momoa is not even in this clip. I won't spoil it for you, but suffice to say character background is being aptly looked after!

Here's the storyline if you haven't seen it yet:
"I live. I love. I slay...I am content." - Conan The Barbarian The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back this Summer. Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination- in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds- Conan's exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal 3D action-adventure film. more... A quest that begins as a personal vendetta for the fierce Cimmerian warrior soon turns into an epic battle against hulking rivals, horrific monsters, and impossible odds, as Conan realizes he is the only hope of saving the great nations of Hyboria from an encroaching reign of supernatural evil. Deftly adapted from the original works of Robert E. Howard and faithful to the mythology and psychology of his iconic character, CONAN THE BARBARIAN stars Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang, Rose McGowan, Saïd Taghmaoui and Ron Perlman. The film is directed by Marcus Nispel, and written by Thomas Dean Donnelly & Joshua Oppenheimer and Sean Hood.

Gotta love Ron Perlman is this! Well, ANY movie he is in. CONAN hits us August 19.

MUST SEE: New CONAN THE BARBARIAN 3D Poster!

After seeing Jason Momoa in A GAME OF THRONES I can easily see why he was cast as Conan. I think he is a wonderful choice for the role. Did you know that he stands 6'4"? I had no idea. He doesn't come across that tall unless he is standing next to someone. That makes him the same height as Dwayne Johnson (and taller than Schwarzenegger). Hmmm, would like to see a movie with The Rock And Momoa cast against each other!

If you have a negative reaction to him as Conan as of now, I'd like to hear it actually! Let me know why. After seeing him as Khal Drogo (who he played MAGNIFICENTLY), I am going to love him as Conan.

The poster has elements from previous media photos and clips already seen, but has been put together in a very symmetrical and symbiotic way. Save for that sword hilt which I don't really like in it, everything else resonates. Quite like it!

It's all the rage to have floating embers and ash in the air for posters these days isn't it? HP7 is doing it too for example. Anyway, I am looking forward to the movie - they've sold me a long time ago. We can all use some more villainous Stephen Lang!!

Look for CONAN THE BARBARIAN on August 19.

WATCH: Red Band Trailer for CONAN THE BARBARIAN!

Who doesn't like a red band trailer once in awhile? We have the CONAN THE BARBARIAN restricted trailer and it looks bloody well good. Look at yourself in the mirror and if you're of age click play below!



More when I get it...

WATCH: New TV Spot For CONAN THE BARBARIAN!

Be sure to watch this in HD - cause it looks wicked! Love the new shots we're seeing here from Lionsgate. More of the verbal interaction between Conan (Jason Momoa) and Khalar (Stephen Lang) which helps present a bit more of their characters.

The whole thing is looking much more epic with this glimpse!

CONAN THE BARBARIAN opens August 19 in S3D!



More when I get it. Check out all of our Conan coverage right here.

See: New CONAN THE BARBARIAN Character Posters!

Hey guys - check the new CONAN THE BARBARIAN posters!

Click images to enlarge...

Here's the movie's synopsis:
The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back this Summer. Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination- in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds- Conan’s exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal 3D action-adventure film.

A quest that begins as a personal vendetta for the fierce Cimmerian warrior soon turns into an epic battle against hulking rivals, horrific monsters, and impossible odds, as Conan realizes he is the only hope of saving the great nations of Hyboria from an encroaching reign of supernatural evil.

Deftly adapted from the original works of Robert E. Howard and faithful to the mythology and psychology of his iconic character, CONAN THE BARBARIAN stars Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang, Rose McGowan, Saïd Taghmaoui and Ron Perlman. The film is directed by Marcus Nispel, and written by Thomas Dean Donnelly & Joshua Oppenheimer and Sean Hood.

- Official Site: http://www.ConanTheBarbarianIn3D.com
- Join the Barbarian Army: http://www.facebook.com/ConanTheBarbarian
- Official Twitter Page: http://twitter.com/#!/lionsgatemovies

Director: Marcus Nispel
Writer: Thomas Dean Donnelly
Studio: Lionsgate
Cast: Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang
Release: August 19, 2011

Oh man, can't wait for this one. Seeing Stephen Lang all pumped up with 3D badness again makes the eyes water a little bit... BRING IT!!

"I watch 3D. I post 3D. I comment 3D... I am content." -Jim Dorey 2011

New CONAN THE BARBARIAN Poster!

Looks like Jason Momoa goes up against a lot of nasties in CONAN THE BARBARIAN! I really hope they keep the warrior angle. We need a true representation of a warrior as its been a long time coming. This is Lionsgate's latest official poster for the movie - so enjoy!

Official storyline:

“I live. I love. I slay…I am content.”
- Conan The Barbarian

The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back this Summer. Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination- in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds- Conan’s exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal 3D action-adventure film.

A quest that begins as a personal vendetta for the fierce Cimmerian warrior soon turns into an epic battle against hulking rivals, horrific monsters, and impossible odds, as Conan realizes he is the only hope of saving the great nations of Hyboria from an encroaching reign of supernatural evil.

Deftly adapted from the original works of Robert E. Howard and faithful to the mythology and psychology of his iconic character, CONAN THE BARBARIAN stars Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang, Rose McGowan, Saïd Taghmaoui and Ron Perlman. The film is directed by Marcus Nispel, and written by Thomas Dean Donnelly & Joshua Oppenheimer and Sean Hood.

Official Site: http://www.ConanTheBarbarianIn3D.com
Join the Barbarian Army: http://www.facebook.com/ConanTheBarbarian
Official Twitter Page: http://twitter.com/#!/lionsgatemovies

MUST WATCH: CONAN THE BARBARIAN First Trailer!

Yes! It's finally here. Jason Momoa stars as Conan in the Lionsgate fantasy action movie CONAN THE BARBARIAN. Momoa is pitted against (literally I suppose) Stephen Lang (AVATAR) who plays the double bladed, parallel scimitar wielding Khalar Zym.

Here's the movie's synopsis:
The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back this Summer. Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination - in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds - Conan's exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal 3D action-adventure film.

A quest that begins as a personal vendetta for the fierce Cimmerian warrior soon turns into an epic battle against hulking rivals, horrific monsters, and impossible odds, as Conan realizes he is the only hope of saving the great nations of Hyboria from an encroaching reign of supernatural evil.

Movie Details:
Director: Marcus Nispel
Writer: Thomas Dean Donnelly
Studio: Lionsgate
Cast: Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang
Release: August 19, 2011

I like the trailer. Wasn't sure what to expect from the limited exposure we have been given thus far, but I have been impressed. Will they deliver a better product than the Schwarzenegger led effort did? Thus far, I think so.

Have a look:

New CONAN THE BARBARIAN Teaser Trailer! Jason Momoa To Receive Rising Star Of The Year Award

I have to say that CONAN THE BARBARIAN is looking better and better all the time. Jason Momoa seems primed for stardom too and he will be receiving the CinemaCon Rising Star Of The Year award for 2011 at the Las Vegas conference in a couple of weeks. I'll be there too and hopefully get a word with him.

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized in this way, and I’m happy that CinemaCon and the exhibition community are as excited as I am for the release of this film,” said Momoa of receiving the award.

“Jason is the definition of a rising star,” added President of Lionsgate’s Film Group Joe Drake. “He will absolutely be the next unstoppable male action hero, and we are so proud that it will be because of this film. We’re thrilled that CinemaCon has seen the same star qualities in Jason as we did.”

Background:
The most legendary Barbarian of all time is back this Summer. Having thrived and evolved for eight consecutive decades in the public imagination- in prose and graphics, on the big screen and small, in games and properties of all kinds- Conan’s exploits in the Hyborian Age now come alive like never before in a colossal 3D action-adventure film.

Director: Marcus Nispel
Writer: Thomas Dean Donnelly
Studio: Lionsgate
Cast: Jason Momoa, Rachel Nichols, Stephen Lang
Release: August 19, 2011

Here's the teaser trailer... Enjoy!



Can't wait to see Stephen Lang as another bad guy too!!