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Aquaman, AQUAMAN ANDROMEDA #1 REVIEW, Aquaman: Andromeda #1, Black Label, Christian Ward, DC Comics, Ram V
Aquaman: Andromeda #1
Review by Paul Bowler
The world of Aquamam comes to DC’s Black Label for a new three part series Aquaman Andromeda, from writer Ram V (Venom, The Swamp Thing) and illustrated by Christian Ward (Thor, Invisible Kingdom). Aquaman Andromeda #1 is a highly compelling and immersive experience that works on many levels. Blending rich sci-fi themes and dark psychological horror, Ram V take us on a deep dive into the Pacific Ocean, where Arthur Curry, a crew of scientists on an experimental submarine, and even old foes will find themselves facing a dark terrors in the depths of beyond that will test even the King of Seas to breaking point. Initially, Aquaman’s presence is slightly cursory at best. Ram V shows us a more contemplative side to Arthur Curry, where his need for solitude and dedication to the duty of his aquatic realm strikes a much finer balance than anyone could’ve suspected.
Much of the action takes place on the prototype submarine Andromeda, the incredible high-tech vessel is powered by an experimental quantum drive, and her crew is a diverse mix of coutures and specialities — some of whom have a far more intuitive understanding of the nature of the sea than even they themselves realise. It is this Marine Biologists haunting backstory almost unconsciously drives the narrative as the Andromeda embarks on its mission to investigate a mysterious signal emanating from Point Nemo – the infamous spaceship graveyard used by the various nations of the world for their crafts splashdowns on returning to Earth since the dawn of the space race.

Aquaman Andromeda is beautifully illustrated throughout by Christian Ward. Every page is like an aquarium of encapsulated drama and mystery, rich with detail, vivid color, and mesmerising clarity. Aquaman’s time above and below the waves strikes distinct parallels between story beats, with warm tones and an almost soft focus conveying his treasured solace in a simple task, while ominous shadows creep in before descending into the deep to face a strange new calling. Ward gives Aquaman’s traditional costume a slight makeover as well; with accents reminiscent of a coral reef. The Andromeda submarine is another marvel to behold, with its futuristic corridors and instruments.
This series looks set to take full advantage of the edgier format Black Label can offer. The sense of building dread is palpable throughout, events also set master pirate Black Manta on a collision course with his old nemesis, and the attack by a giant Cephalopoda leads to a jaw-dropping confrontation with Aquaman. This cracking first issue unashamedly wears its sci-fi-horror influences on its sleeve, and provides an intriguing set-up for what’s to come as something begins awakening down in the dark at Point Nemo. If you like comics being a tad edgier then you’ll be amazed at how DC’s King of the Seas takes a voyage to the darker side of sci-fi here, as Aquaman Andromeda #1, with its thrilling story by Ram V and fantastic artwork by Christian Ward, is sure to float your boat!
Publisher DC Comics (Black Label)
Writer Ram V
Artist Christian
Letters Aditya Bidikar
Cover Christian Ward
About The Author
Hi, I’m Paul Bowler, blogger and reviewer of films, TV shows, and comic books. I’m a Sci-Fi geek, a big fan of Doctor Who, Star Trek, movies, Sci-Fi, Horror, Comic Books, and all things PS4.You can follow me on Twitter @paul_bowler,or at my website, Sci-Fi Jubilee, and on YouTube and Facebook
Great review, Paul. I’ve been looking forward to this darker look at the character. Aquaman has never really interested me before, but this interpretation looks intriguing.
Yeah, its great to see a slightly darker take on Aquaman, and the story has an interesting sci-fi / horror slant to it as well. The art is amazing as well!
Aquaman meets SeaQuest?
Yes, the Andromeda submarine does have a bit of a SeaQuest vibe to, although the story seems more like a meld of The Abyss and Lovecraftian themes. The artwork is fantastic as well.
Using Point Nemo is a brilliant plot idea. Also, the richly organic cover reminds me of Swamp Thing imagery.
Point Memo is a terrifically haunting setting for this spooky underwater adventure. Ram V writes The Swamp Thing as well, and he’s certainly brought that horror vibe to his take on Aquaman as well. That cover is amazing as well!
That cover is amazing!
I really like this cover as well, it really conveys how mysterious and atmospheric this Aquaman story is.
This looks stunning! I love these Black Label books, most of them push the edge and are so well done. Solid review as always.
The Black Label format offers a great new take on Aquaman, and I’ve certainly never see him in a story quite like this before. Stunning artwork as well. Cheers, glad you enjoyed the review, aways have fun doing them. 🙂
At least from the cover art, it looks like he is being drawn to look more like Jason Momoa vs the classic blonde version.
The interior artwork and cover by by Christian Ward looks amazing for Aquaman Andromeda, I prefer this modern take on the classic look for Aquaman as well.