Despite rumblings Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom will be delayed, the sequel has yet to move from its planned release date.
Given what we've heard about the movie, it would be unwise for Warner Bros. to push it into 2024, especially as there needs to be as big a gap as possible between the DCEU's conclusion and Superman: Legacy kicking off the new DCU (as of now, the only DC movie heading to theaters next year is Joker: Folie à Deux).
DC Comics recently revealed its October solicitations and among them is a one-shot titled Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Special #1. As you've no doubt figured out, it's a prelude to the movie that promises to fill in the gaps between 2018's Aquaman and this long-awaited follow-up.
"Discover the shocking events that connect the smash-hit Aquaman movie to the eagerly anticipated Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom!" reads the description. "Aquaman balances his duties as king and as a member of the Justice League, all while planning a wedding!"
"Black Manta is on the hunt for Atlantean tech to help rebuild his armor! Orm plots to escape his Atlantean prison! Three action-packed tales crammed into a single special!"
So, Arthur Curry and Mera are planning to get married, a surprise when Amber Heard's Mera is said to only feature in a few minutes of the movie. The solicitation text also offers a better idea of what villains Black Manta and Ocean Master are planning as we head into the sequel.
On writing duties for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom Special #1 are Tim Seeley, Joey Esposito, and Ethan Sacks. Miguel Mendonca, Ray-Anthony Height, and Scot Eaton will provide art, while Ivan Reis, Jim Cheung, and Belen Ortega are lending their talents to provide covers.
The Flash prelude revealed the moment Barry Allen got his new suit, so we're definitely anticipating at least a couple of big moments in this one-shot.