Aquaman reviews: Critics reveal first reactions to DC blockbuster – ‘BETTER than expected’

The film is not in cinemas until late next month, so full reviews are not due just yet. However, following its premiere in London last night, critics have shared their first impressions on social media – and it sounds like Aquaman could join Wonder Woman on the all-too-small list of recent DC successes.

CinemaBlend’s Eric Eisenberg wrote: “Excited I can now say how much I enjoyed #Aquaman! It’s a cool adventure built on some tremendous action sequences and set pieces, with a great hero arc/performance from Jason Momoa as the glue.

“There’s fun world building, and it looks wonderful. A great step for the DCEU.”

JoBlo.com’s Paul Shirey said: “I’ll take some heat for this, but #Aquaman is the best Marvel movie that DC has made.

“That doesn’t mean it’s exactly like that formula, but it feels like a film that knows what it is, what it’s selling and who it’s selling to. There’s no identity crisis here.”

ScreenRant’s Andrew Dyce tweeted: “Aquaman is a breathtakingly beautiful, weird, badass, FUN idea of a modern superhero fantasy (anime) and makes zero apologies. Second half’s one cheer/laugh after another.

“Imagine ’80s Schwarzenegger starring in ‘Hideo Kojima’s AVATAR’ and you’re most of the way there. #Aquaman.”

/Film’s Peter Sciretta said: “#Aquaman is better than expected. Feels like a Marvel phase one movie, in a good way.

“It’s at its best when it’s having fun and not taking itself too seriously. Black Manta is great villain that comic book fans will love. Some truly spectacular one shots and good action.”

And ComicBook.com’s Brandon Davis said: “There were moments where I felt #Aquaman might be running a little long but it has SO much to unpack in building its own isolated world.

“Huge, epic, unique, and stylish action-sequences balance the heavy exposition. Movie isn’t out yet but I want more from Wan, Momoa, & co.”

The movie stars Jason Momoa in the title role, with support from Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson, Nicole Kidman – and even Julie Andrews.

Aquaman is out on December 12 in the UK.