A new creative team dives into “Aquaman” with issue 49 and proves to readers why Arthur Curry is one of DC’s best superheroes.
Written by Dan Abnett
Illustrated by Vicente CifuentesIn the aftermath of the Thule invasion, Aquaman must show the people of Atlantis that he was the target of a conspiracy and earn their trust once more. And no, it’s not going to be easy…
Writer Dan Abnett comes aboard “Aquaman” at a time when the series was in need of focus and a new direction. Artist Vicente Cifuentes joins Abnett with “Aquaman” #49 in telling a story that hones in on the diplomatic and hopeful aspects of the character that make Aquaman such a unique character. Because he straddles the worlds of land and the underwater Atlantis, Abnett seeds the plot of a mysterious villain that could possibly force him to struggle with the success of his mission to forge a bond between land and sea dwellers. Abnett keeps us intrigued with this issue despite the lack of action and instead successfully focuses on characterization and a healthy amount of humor.
“Aquaman” was one of the best debut series to come out of the New 52 initiative. That was mainly because of writer Geoff Johns. Abnett, with “Aquaman” #49, attempts to refocus on many parts of the character that made Johns’ story such a cohesive book. We get to see Arthur interact with the love of his life, Mera, and with friends of both land and sea. The merging of both sides of Arthur’s life is balanced quite well. His personal interactions are natural and the love and respect between him and Mera is refreshing and playful. Arthur’s ideals and superheroic part of his personality come through in his idealistic and inspirational plan. Abnett, like Johns, have a love for Aquaman that is expressed in his complexity.
Abnett’s script may not be a revolutionary game changer and is definitely not a requirement for this solid first issue for a new creative team. “Aquaman” #49 is a re-introduction to an iconic character that plays with metaphor and relationships in an effortless way. Conversation is key to this issue and the ones had between Arthur and Mera tease a myriad amount of directions that a story could go with a versatile character such as Aquaman.
Like Abnett, Vicente Cifuentes’ art is appropriate for the basic, laidback tone of “Aquaman” #49. Cifuentes has the responsibility to bring dynamism to a story that relies heavily on quieter moments. He succeeds mostly through facial expressions and close-ups that bring a sense of humanity and mystery to the proceedings. Both Cifuentes and John Dell ink this issue with a blend of crispness and just the right amount of an appropriately flowing quality that is devoid of any muddled pages. There was no rushing on the part of Cifuentes and Dell, with these artists completely in sync with Abnett.
Guy Major utilizes vibrant colors throughout the issue. Whether it’s the yellow of Arthur’s hair or Mera’s long red locks, the colors pulsate off the page. Major is undoubtedly having fun coloring this issue even while keeping a simple palette. That final page looks gorgeous because of the iconic Aquaman colors of green and orange.
Legacy, family, and love are heavily alluded to throughout “Aquaman” #49 and is a great change of direction for the series. Some of the best superheroes are made even greater because of their supporting cast and carefully built worlds. Abnett, Cifuentes, and Major are on their way to making “Aquaman” great again.
Final Verdict: 7.9 – Arthur Curry has gained new direction and purpose with a new creative team. “Aquaman” #49 may not be a great comic, but it is surely a great beginning.
