DC Reveals Why Black Manta Is So Much More Powerful in Aquaman 2

Warning: Spoilers for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Special #1

Enthusiastic Black Manta fans might have observed what seems to be a noticeable increase in David Kane’s power in the upcoming movie Aquaman and the Last Kingdom. As a prelude to the movie, a new DC tie-in comic provides fans with an explanation for the source of Manta’s newfound prowess, one that is unrelated to his Black Trident.

The source of Black Manta’s newfound prowess is unveiled in “Afterimage” by Joey Esposito, Ray-Anthony Height, Enrica Eren Angiolini, and Josh Reed, a story from the movie tie-in one-shot Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Special #1 that spotlights David Kane’s Black Manta. After Kane receives a letter from his late father, the former Black Manta, he’s propelled into a series of trials across the globe, which culminate in him defeating and claiming victory over a rival captain’s crew.

Following this triumph, Kane discovers the true purpose behind the challenges. They were not intended to assess his worthiness as the next Black Manta, but rather to prove to David that he is and always has been worthy of the Black Manta legacy.

Black Manta’s Dead Father Helps Him Realize His Power

Hence, Aquaman 2 will showcase a stronger Black Manta since David’s trials hone his abilities, enable him to gather a crew, and instill in him a newfound determination and belief that he can defeat Aquaman. The trailers and promotional stills for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom have revealed a version of Black Manta who is significantly more formidable than his previous depiction. David Kane now emerges with an army, cutting-edge technology, and a newfound determination upon the arrival of Lost Kingdom, differing starkly from his earlier presentation in the initial Aquaman film.

Understandably, this new status quo raises legitimate questions regarding Black Manta’s extraordinary transformation from his last appearance of being adrift at sea to his current embodiment of overwhelming power. That said, DC has provided these long-awaited explanations through the recent release of the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom comic prelude. In Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Special #1, Black Manta’s trials exemplify his resourcefulness and unwavering resolve. As a non-meta underdog villain, Black Manta is often appreciated by fans for his resilience, determination, and natural skill.

Manta’s Black Trident May Overshadow Other Aspects of His Power

However, the introduction of the Black Trident in the upcoming movie will provide him with a significant power boost. Reliance on this new weapon might diminish the character’s depth, erasing the emphasis on David’s innate abilities. Hopefully Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom will maintain the focus on Black Manta’s individual grit, allowing his character to shine without being overshadowed by a newfound weapon.

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM SPECIAL #1 (2023)

Writer: Tim Seeley, Joey Esposito, Ethan Sacks Artist: Miguel Mendonca, Ray-Anthony Height, Scot Eaton, Norm Rapmund Colorist: Andrew Dalhouse, Enrica Eren Angiolini, Tony Aviña Letterer: Wes Abbott, Josh Reed, Carlos M. Mangual Cover Artist: Ivan Reis, Danny Miki, Brad Anderson