I will be writing blogs on a lot of the comic book characters that I like. I have chosen the water-themed hero to be first. Aquaman seems to be the butt of many jokes to comic book and non-comic book fans alike. I never understood that is. Super Friends was a long time ago and the jokes still carried on till now. Granted, Aquaman is appreciated much more but it seems that a lot of people still don't understand him and laugh when he's mentioned.
1. He has Awesome Powers
Yes. In my opinion, Aquaman's powers (and Namor's) are incredibly cool. He's King of the Seven Seas, which takes up 70% of the planet. Once you step in water, Aquaman rules you and has the advantage. He calls upon sea creatures. Not just fish, but the fictional creatures like the Kraken and giant squid thingys. He has a very durable and has class 100 strength. Sure it's not on the level of Superman or Wonder Woman, but he's powerful nonetheless.
2. Make Fun of Him and He Doesn't Give a Crap
Let's be honest. Superman cares a lot about how the public views him. So does the Flash (doesn't matter which Flash). However, Aquaman endures countless criticism and he just keeps on kicking butt. He's not obligated to help "surface dwellers." He's not obligated to even come to the surface. He could just live down in Atlantis his whole life and not care. But, he still helps out the Justice League and the creatures of the land. He stands up for what's right and doesn't care if you don't appreciate his help, as long as he's helping.
3. He's a Humble King
What really surprises me is that Aquaman isn't your typical arrogant womanizing King. He assumes the role because it's a responsibility but doesn't care to be worshiped or served by his people. He's there to do the job and doesn't really take advantage of his power. He'd do anything to protect land and water alike. In "Throne of Atlantis" he saw that Atlantis needed a king, so he became one, even though he really didn't want it. He's loyal to Mera and doesn't ogle any other woman just because he's king.
4. Hardcore Supporting Cast
Aquaman's family is basically all superheroes: Aqualad (Jackson & Kaldur), Aquagirl, Mera, Garth. All of them, especially Mera, are fantastic characters that can fight alongside him. Not to mention, in the New 52, we have "The Others." A group of people that used to fight alongside Aquaman. All very interesting character that I would love to see in the future. Notable supporting cast members would include his awesome dog and Aquababy, who he never really saw. His relationship with Mera is one of my absolute favorites in comics. More on Mera later...
5. He has his Fair Share of Good Stories
Aquaman has had a few memorable stories that people should definitely read. My personal favorites are "American Tidal" and "The Others." Everyone should give Aquaman a chance and read his New 52 series written by Geoff Johns. "The Trench," "The Others," "Throne of Atlantis," and the current story arc are all great. His Peter David run is worth the read as well.
6. A Whole New World and Villains
I do realize that Atlantis is not an original idea, not by a long shot. However, Atlantis has become a beautiful fantasy land in comics. It's an escape from reality and is inhabited by other sea warriors, learning advanced magic and science. Aquaman doesn't exactly have the best rogues gallery but he has two memorable ones. Ocean Master and Black Manta. Ocean Master is a compelling villian because of his sibling rivalry with Aquaman. This rivalry almost reminds me of Loki and Thor, and we all know how great that relationship is. Black Manta is a land dweller who just has intense hatred for him. He's a tough and badass villain who just looks plain awesome.
7. Mera
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