In Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Black Manta wields a black trident, a powerful DCEU weapon with a complicated comics backstory. Black Manta is well-known as one of Aquaman’s arch-enemies in the comics, a sea-faring mercenary wearing a high-tech suit to battle the King of Atlantis. The 2018 film Aquaman saw David Kane, a.k.a. Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), make his cinematic debut, seeking revenge against Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa) for his father’s death.
In the sequel Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Black Manta returns with a vendetta, posing a significant threat that forces Aquaman to team up with his half-brother Orm, a.k.a. Ocean Master (Patrick Wilson). Black Manta wields a black trident in this film, which holds major significance for the movie’s plot and plays a considerable role in the ending.
The Black Trident’s Origins and Power
Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom reveals that the Black Trident contains the soul of King Kordax and is imbued with dark magic. Kordax, defeated by his brother King Atlan, had his soul trapped in the weapon, leading to its immense power and the curse on Kordax’s empire, Necrus. The trident is capable of inflicting catastrophic damage, but its dark magic poses a risk of corruption to the wielder.
Possible Comic Book Inspirations
While not directly based on any single weapon from DC comics, the Black Trident draws elements from various sources, including the Dead King’s Scepter and Triton’s trident. Its composition of Orichalcum, one of the strongest materials in DC Comics, suggests similarities to Black Manta’s trident in the comics.
Comparison with Aquaman’s Trident
It’s challenging to determine the Black Trident’s power compared to Aquaman’s Trident of Atlan. While the Black Trident possesses flashy powers and has posed a threat to Atlantis, Aquaman’s trident is shown as sturdier, being able to shatter it twice in the film’s final fight. Despite its magical capabilities, the Black Trident ultimately falls short against the Trident of Atlan wielded by Aquaman.
FAQ
Who wields the Black Trident in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom?
Black Manta, portrayed by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, wields the Black Trident in the film.
What is the significance of the Black Trident in the movie?
The Black Trident contains the soul of King Kordax and possesses dark magic, making it a formidable weapon capable of catastrophic damage.
How does the Black Trident compare to Aquaman’s Trident of Atlan?
While both tridents are powerful, Aquaman’s Trident of Atlan is shown to be sturdier and ultimately more potent, as it shatters the Black Trident twice in the film’s final fight.
Is the Black Trident based on any specific weapon from DC comics?
The Black Trident draws elements from various sources in DC comics, including the Dead King’s Scepter and Triton’s trident, but it is not directly based on any single weapon.