James Wan reveals the forgotten 1960s horror film that shaped Aquaman 2’s darkest moments
James Wan, celebrated for his work in horror and superhero genres, has once again demonstrated his love for the macabre in his latest film, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. While promoting the DC sequel, Wan shared that his inspiration for the movie came from an unlikely source: Mario Bava’s 1965 sci-fi horror masterpiece, Planet of the Vampires.
In an interview with Total Film, Wan explained, “Planet of the Vampires very heavily inspires Aquaman 2. You can take the boy out of horror, but you can never take the horror out of the boy.” Bava's film's eerie, atmospheric cinematography and otherworldly terror can be felt in the underwater kingdoms and shadowy, volcanic environments that dominate Aquaman 2.
Planet of the Vampires tells the story of astronauts stranded on a hostile planet, battling reanimated corpses in an environment oozing dread. The film was acclaimed for its groundbreaking visuals, achieved on a modest budget, and has been cited as an influence on other sci-fi classics, including Ridley Scott’s Alien. Wan’s nod to this cult classic is a testament to his enduring connection to horror, even as he ventures into the superhero realm.
By blending the eerie atmosphere of Planet of the Vampires with the grandeur of the Aquaman universe, Wan crafts a sequel that delves into darker, more mysterious territories. It’s a reminder of his versatility and dedication to storytelling that pushes boundaries.
James Wan’s ability to weave atmospheric horror into his superhero narrative is a testament to the power of creative vision. Imagine having the tools to bring your cinematic worlds to life. With Aux Machina, you can create stunning visuals that echo the haunting brilliance of Planet of the Vampires or the aquatic depths of Aquaman 2. Aux Machina’s AI-driven tools enable you to channel your creativity effortlessly, making it the ultimate platform for storytellers and visual artists.
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