Jeremy Adams is no stranger to the challenge of breathing new life into iconic DC heroes. After producing popular works in The Flash and Green Lantern, he’s now set his sights on the aquatic film Aquaman, which opens on January 8th.
But this isn’t just another chapter in Arthur Curry’s story. This is a bold reimagining that promises to delve deep into the character’s humanity, heritage, and untapped potential. Joined by talented artist John Timms, Adams has created an equally introspective and action-packed series that offers a fresh perspective on an often-underrated hero within DC’s pantheon.
Adams recently sat down with AIPT to discuss the thrills and challenges of taking the reins of Aquaman, and explore the themes, powers, and surprises fans can expect when the King of Atlantis returns to the spotlight. From the evolving nature of Arthur’s powers to his struggle with duty and personal identity, the series promises to shake up the underwater world in more ways than one.
Courtesy of DC Comics.
Aquaman’s “Find the Hole”
While some might be intimidated by playing a character with such a long history as Aquaman/Arthur Curry, Adams sees it as an opportunity.
“Like everything I do, there’s a lot of tension, there’s total fear, and just trying to get it right,” Adams said.
What is his strategy? Look for unexplored territory.
“I think what I try to do is look for holes in certain characters,” Adams said. “When I say holes, I mean where are the continuity holes, or where are the things that they don’t explore as much? And see if we can jump into that section as much as we can. please.”
For Adams, his journey with Arthur Curry isn’t just about his power and throne, it’s about digging into the core of who he is.
A hero, a king, a human being
One of the defining elements of Adams’ vision for Aquaman is the exploration of Arthur’s identity beyond the trident and crown.
“He was the king of Atlantis, but he was also a child who lived in the surface world,” Adams said. “He rides his bike and probably misses a hot hamburger every now and then.”
This contrast between royal duties and human longings is central to the series. Adams described the internal conflict as a kind of “Aquaman midlife crisis,” adding, “He’s asking, ‘Who am I?'” What is my identity now? I am a child, a husband, a king, a hero. What does it bring me? ”
Adams promises a combination of introspection and action, balancing quieter moments with plenty of monster fights and world-building.
“There’s going to be a lot of punch, there’s going to be a lot of monsters, there’s going to be a lot of characters that haven’t been in DC Comics in a long time,” Adams said.
Provided by: DC Comics
Provided by: DC Comics
New power, new challenge
Adams revealed that Arthur’s powers have evolved in this new series, giving the King of Atlantis a type of kinesis.
“It’s going to be interesting that he has some form of kinesis, and how does that manifest and how does he learn to use it?” Adams said.
However, he emphasized that this new ability is secondary to the larger story of Arthur’s personal growth.
“Really, the idea is to take Aquaman on a journey so that I, as a writer, and the reader can also understand who he is,” Adams said.
Building a new Atlantis
The series begins with Arthur reclaiming his role as king and restoring Atlantis after the chaos caused by Amanda Waller. However, as an adventurer, judgment does not come naturally to him.
“It would be terrible to cling to the throne,” Adams said. “There’s a longing for freedom, and that’s explored as the story progresses.”
Adams’ world-building extends beyond Arthur’s internal conflict. This story introduces a new cosmological element called “The Blue,” which connects the mystical properties of water to the larger framework of the DC Universe.
Courtesy of DC Comics.
Creative collaboration with Tims
Working with Tims was a highlight for Adams, who described him as “the greatest human being ever.” This collaboration enables dynamic storytelling as Timms brings both epic battles and intimate character moments to life.
“I can throw 7-pound stuff at him, and his layout makes everything feel organic,” Adams said.
Is there a standout moment? The massive splash page featuring a Cthulhu-like monster showcases Timms’ ability to capture both epic scale and emotional depth.
Provided by: DC Comics
Provided by: DC Comics
A journey of heritage and belonging
At the heart of this new Aquaman series is a reconciliation between duty and desire, past and present. Addams draws on universal themes of heritage, power, and belonging, and uses Arthur’s unique situation to ask larger questions.
“There’s a lot of variation between what he’s obligated to do and what he wants to do,” Adams said. “He’s going to have to face what he really wants in life.”
Courtesy of DC Comics.
Make a fresh start with big plans
With Aquaman back in the spotlight, Adams sees the series as both a fresh start and a continuation for longtime fans.
“I think that’s a big draw because it focuses on Arthur,” Adams said. “For those who read a lot, there is a thread that connects Easter eggs and stories from the past.”
Adams also teased some big surprises, including the character’s return in issue two and a long-running three-part series.
“It’s going to change Aquaman a lot — well, at least until the next writer comes along,” Adams said. Adams told me that telling all three arcs is up to the fans who buy and read the series.
With Adams’ passion for character-driven stories and Timms’ stunning visuals, this new chapter of Aquaman promises to be a journey worth diving into. Issue #1 will be released on January 8th, offering readers an epic, emotional, and action-packed story that explores the depths of the DC Universe and the heart of its aquatic heroes.
Provided by: DC Comics
Provided by: DC Comics
