Month: May 2021

Want to build a website? You’ll need a web hosting service first to store your files, media and documents.

Web hosting is a service that provides organizations and individuals with a platform to store files that make up a website and to make them accessible online. 

With web hosting you rent space on a server to store your website data, such as HTML and CSS files, media content, and other documents so that your website can be accessed by anyone with an Internet connection.

Web hosting is typically provided by web hosts, which are businesses that maintain, configure, and run physical servers that house websites. You could, if you wanted to, host a website at home but it would be a bad idea. Not only would your PC need to be on all the time and not likely have enough power if your site got popular but you’d also be inviting the entire world-wide-web into your home.

While web hosting might seem like a difficult topic to tackle, this article will help you better grasp its concepts and intricacies.

We’ll start by taking a closer look at how web hosting works. Then, we’ll overview some common types of web hosting and a few aspects to look for in a web hosting service. 

How does web hosting work?

To make a website accessible to everyone, it must be stored on a server that is connected to the internet. When someone wants to view your website, they will type your URL into their browser and their computer will then connect to your server. Once this happens, the server will send them the files that make up your website.

To set up a website, you will need to choose a web host and purchase a plan. This will give you access to a server where you can store your website files. When your files are uploaded, anyone will be able to view your site by typing in your URL.

Why is web hosting important? 

Web hosting allows you to put your website online. Without it, you would have to find a way to host your website on your own, which would be difficult and expensive.

Additionally, web hosting provides you with a place to store your website’s files. When you create a website, you need somewhere to store the individual files and images that make up your website. These files are stored on a web server, which is provided by a web hosting company.

Web hosting services give you access to certain tools and services that can make creating and managing your website easier. For example, many web hosting companies offer website builder services, which allow you to create a website without any programming or design experience. 

Some web hosting companies also offer tools that can help you manage your websites, such as email services and databases.

Types of web hosting services 

There are various types of web hosting services: shared, virtual private server (VPS), dedicated, and cloud. Each type of hosting service offers different features and benefits that can be beneficial for your website. There are even services optimized for particular applications like the best WordPress hosting providers and the best Minecraft server hosting providers.

Shared hosting is the most popular type of web hosting service. With shared hosting, your website shares a server with other websites. This means that you will be sharing resources such as bandwidth and storage space. 

A virtual private server (VPS) is a type of web hosting service that allows you to have your server. With a VPS, you will be allotted a certain amount of resources, such as bandwidth and storage space. A VPS is a great option for businesses or websites that require more resources than what is offered with shared hosting.

Dedicated server hosting is a type of web hosting service where you have your own server. With dedicated hosting, you will not be sharing your server with other websites. This gives you will have more control over your server and the resources that are available to you. Dedicated hosting is a great option for businesses or websites that require a lot of resources.

Cloud hosting is a hosting service that allows you to have your website hosted on multiple servers. With cloud hosting, your website will be able to scale up or down as needed.

This means that you can have the resources that you need when you need them. Cloud hosting is a great option for businesses or websites that have fluctuating resource needs.

What is domain hosting?

Domain hosting is a service that hosts and manages domain names. It’s provided by domain hosts, also known as domain name registrars.  

A domain name itself is the address of your website. Users type a website’s domain name in the address bar of their web browser to visit that site. 

A domain host uses domain name system (DNS) records to connect your domain with your site’s internet protocol (IP) address – a unique address assigned to a physical server, which usually looks like this: 168.221.236.204.

IP addresses help computers identify each other online, but it’s challenging for humans to remember and use these numbers to access a website. Thanks to DNS, people can load a site on their browser without knowing its associated IP address. 

Aside from acting as a website address, a domain name can also be a tool to support a site’s branding – it’s the first element that people see when visiting a website. Thus, it’s crucial to spend some time picking a domain name that suits your project or business.

Here are a few tips for choosing the right domain name for a website:

Pick a short name that is easy to rememberEnsure a domain is easy to spell and pronounceStick with a popular top-level domain (TLD) like .comRefrain from using numbers and hyphensUtilize domain name generators to get more domain name ideas

It’s also possible to buy a domain name from web hosts that also offer domain registration services, such as Hostinger, Bluehost, and GoDaddy. You can look up already existing domains using search tools provided by ICANN or WHOIS.

Purchasing a domain name from your web hosting company lets you manage both services under one account. Thus, there is no need to worry about changing the nameserver settings for your domain.

Why is web hosting important?

Web hosting companies are responsible for maintaining and keeping their servers running 24/7, ensuring great performance for the websites they host. For online business owners, having a site with outstanding uptime can help maximize sales and improve user experience.

Additionally, using a web hosting service can improve a site’s search engine optimization (SEO). The web host you choose can affect your site speed, one of the critical factors when search engines like Google rank web pages. 

Purchasing a web hosting plan is also more efficient than having an in-house dedicated server – website owners won’t need to spend time maintaining physical hardware or spend money to hire a developer.

Many web hosting providers also offer an intuitive control panel. This tool lets website owners easily control their site and hosting service, manage domain names, install applications, and upload website files.

What to look for in a web hosting service

When you’re ready to take your business or personal website to the next level, you’ll need to find a web hosting service that can give you the tools, space, and support you need. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you?

Here are some things to look for in a web hosting service:

– Reliability: This is the most important thing to look for in a web hosting service. Your website needs to be up and running at all times for your business to run. Uptime is usually expressed as a percentage, such as 99.9% uptime.

– Speed: Speed is also important for a website. If your site takes too long to load, visitors will likely give up and go elsewhere. Look for a web hosting service that can provide you with fast speeds.

– Customer support: When something goes wrong with your website, you’ll need customer support to help you fix the problem. Look for a web hosting service that offers 24/7 customer support so that you can always get help when you need it.

– Pricing: Of course, you’ll also need to consider pricing when choosing a web hosting service. Look for a service that offers a good value for the price.

– Security: Make sure that the web hosting service you choose offers security features such as malware scanning and DDoS protection. This will help keep your website safe from attacks.

– Scalability: As your website grows, you’ll need a web hosting service that can scale with you. Look for a service that offers upgrades so that you can add more resources as needed.

While these are some of the things to look for in a web hosting service, be sure to do your research before choosing a provider so that you can find one that meets your needs.

(Image credit: GCP Ping)

Also, look for hosting service providers with data center locations close to your visitors since it will help make your web pages load faster for them. Check out tools such as GCP Ping to measure how distance impacts loading speed.

Free vs paid web hosting 

As a business owner, you have a lot of choices to make when it comes to hosting your website. One of the most important decisions is whether to choose free or paid web hosting.

There are pros and cons to both paid and free web hosting, so it’s important to weigh your options before making a decision.

Here are some things to consider when choosing between free and paid web hosting:

Cost

The biggest advantage of free web hosting is that it’s, well, free. If you’re on a tight budget, free web hosting can be a great option.

Paid web hosting, on the other hand, costs around $5-10 per month. While this may not seem like much, it can add up over time.

Features

When you choose free web hosting, you’re usually limited in terms of features and customization. Paid web hosting, on the other hand, offers a lot more features and options.

For example, with paid web hosting, you’ll usually get more storage space, bandwidth, email accounts, and support. You’ll also have more control over things like your domain name and website design.

Reliability

Reliability is another important factor to consider when choosing between free and paid web hosting. Free web hosts are often less reliable than paid hosts because they’re often overcrowded and don’t have the resources to keep things running.

Paid web hosts, on the other hand, are much more reliable. This is because they’re not overcrowded and have the resources to keep things running.

Security

Security is another important factor to consider when choosing between free and paid web hosting. Free web hosts often don’t have the same level of security as paid hosts because they can’t afford to invest in it.

Paid web hosts, on the other hand, usually have better security because they can afford to invest in it. This means that your website will be less likely to be hacked or attacked.

Support

When you choose free web hosting, you’re usually on your own when it comes to supporting. This can be a problem if you’re not very tech-savvy or if you run into problems with your website.

Paid web hosts, on the other hand, usually offer 24/7 support. This means that someone will always be available to help you if you have any problems with your website.

So, which is better for your business? Free or paid web hosting?

The answer depends on your specific needs and requirements. If you need a lot of features and customization options, then paid web hosting is a better option for you. However, if you’re on a tight budget, free web hosting can be a good option.

Frequently asked questions about web hosting

After getting to know several important aspects of web hosting services, let’s look at some commonly asked questions about website hosting.

Do I really need web hosting?

You need web hosting to store your web files and make your website available on the internet. In addition to that, purchasing a dedicated server is expensive and impractical. 

Hosting your website on the web host’s servers lets you focus on more important matters, like producing great content and driving traffic to your website.

How much does web hosting cost?

The prices of web hosting services depend on the provider and the type of hosting you choose. 

For instance, if you plan to create a blog, then a shared hosting plan should suffice. The average price of shared hosting plans ranges from $2 to $7/month.

Which web hosting is best?

The best web hosting for you relies on your budget, skill set, and the type of website you aim to build. For example, a large online store with thousands of visitors per month has different hosting needs than a portfolio website with less than a hundred visits.

Let’s see which web hosting is the best for you to get started with:

Best Shared hosting – best for personal useBest VPS hosting – best for small to medium-sized businessesBest cloud hosting – best value for money and best for large businesses

Web hosting is a must for any website

Anyone who wants to build a website needs web hosting to store their website’s files and make them accessible for visitors worldwide. 

There are different types of hosting to choose from, and the right option for your project relies on your budget and preferences.

Here’s a quick recap of the three common types of web hosting:

Shared hosting – it’s easy to manage and has cost-effective plans, making it an excellent choice for beginner and personal websites.VPS hosting – offers dedicated resources for each user. It’s an excellent option for small to medium-sized businesses that have outgrown the resources of a shared hosting plan.Cloud hosting – it’s suitable for fast-growing business websites that expect consistent performance.

Since there are so many web hosting service providers out there, make sure to look for a hosting company that comes with fast servers, an uptime guarantee, security tools, a variety of add-ons, 24/7 support, and reasonable prices.

We hope this article has helped you better your understanding of what web hosting is and why you need it. 

Secure your web host

Web hosting is a service that provides you with the technologies and services needed to get your website online. Once your website is online, people can access it from anywhere in the world. Web hosting companies provide you with a domain name, website builder, email, and other essential tools and services to get your site up and running.

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The rumored Canon EOS R1 could introduce tech that we haven’t seen in a mirrorless camera before.

When it comes to its EOS R interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera series, Canon has of late switched its attention from high-end products with high-end price tags aimed at professionals to entry-level models targeted at more enthusiast and novice users. In recent months, the EOS R100 and EOS R50 have seen Canon seeking to expand its audience to those trading up from smartphones, and looking for a ‘proper’ camera that’s lightweight yet affordable. 

However, if and when the Canon EOS R1 finally arrives, after more than a couple of years of conjecture, it should be a very different beast indeed.

For starters, we’re expecting the EOS R1 to be, to all intents and purposes, the Canon mirrorless camera that’s closest in terms of specs and performance to its pro DSLR workhorse, the EOS-1D X Mark III. That model is three years old at the time of writing, and though Canon hasn’t officially declared the DSLR dead, the Mark III is widely believed to be the end of its particular line. Mirrorless is very much both the present, and the future. 

Currently, the EOS R3 sits at the top of Canon’s full-frame mirrorless lineup. It’s a 20MP beast that prioritizes speed for sports, reportage, and wildlife photographers. But that model was released in 2021, with Canon pointing out that it was never intended to serve as the series’ flagship camera. So, even though historically there have been wider development gaps between Canon’s top-end cameras for working professionals, it’s fair to reason that we’re due a new model soon, and that it could be a premium EOS R1. 

The Canon EOS R1 has been discussed as a serious possibility since 2021, and was originally earmarked to be appearing in 2022, according to reliable website Canon Rumors; however, we’re now halfway through 2023 and it’s yet to be officially confirmed. It’s not surprising, though, that the manufacturer would want to take its time over releasing something that stands up on its own as a true replacement for the mighty EOS-1D X Mark III.

Given the time that’s elapsed, and ongoing high inflation, we’d expect the R1 to be in the same price bracket as the EOS-1D X Mark III, or even pricier.

Here’s what else we expect to see from a new EOS R1 flagship…

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R5 review

Canon EOS R1: release date and price

Rumored to be in the pipeline for the Paris Games in 2024No leaked pricing yet, but will likely be in the Sony A1’s ballparkThe Sony A1 launch price was $6,500 / £6,500 / AU$10,500

So, when can we expect to see a Canon EOS R1 announcement, and when might photographers actually get their hands on the camera? As it didn’t appear in time for the delayed Tokyo Olympics in August 2021, it would be shrewd for Canon to have something out in time for the Paris Olympic Games in 2024. 

Observers believe that this something wouldn’t merely be a product announcement, but that by this date we’ll see the camera itself, ready to be used on the world stage.

It’s believed that we’ll first get an official ‘in development’ announcement, before we get a launch announcement and release date. Given that pro sports photographers would likely need to familiarize themselves with the camera in time for next year’s Olympics, we could see that information teased as early as September or October 2023.

Naturally, ultra-high performance and new tech likely won’t come cheap. Matching Nikon’s aggressive $5,499 / £5,299 / AU$8,999 pricing for its flagship Z9 will be one step too far for Canon – the EOS R1 would have to cost more than the EOS R3 list price of $5,999 / £5,879 / AU$8,599.

We expect the Canon EOS R1 to sell at the Canon 1D X Mark III or Sony Alpha A1 level – which would mean a price tag of at least $6,500 / £6,500 / AU$10,500. 

Canon EOS R1: a global shutter for a global stage?

Canon EOS R1 is strongly rumored to feature a global shutterThis would help eliminate rolling shutter distortion issuesGlobal shutters are expensive

While some of the latest-generation mirrorless cameras eschew a traditional mechanical shutter in favor of an electronic shutter to enable faster and more prolonged burst rates, many pundits expect the Canon EOS R1 will go one step further and introduce a global shutter.

This feature has been strongly rumored for a while, as a global shutter is said to eliminate the distortion caused by movement that can be problematic when shooting with the alternative of a rolling shutter. While DSLRs use a rolling electronic shutter when shooting video or stills in live view mode, mirrorless cameras use a rolling shutter most of the time, unless in mechanical shutter mode. The rolling shutter reads the sensor a line of pixels at a time, from top to bottom, and while this happens rapidly, sometimes it’s not fast enough to avoid distortions when shooting fast motion – something pro sports photographers definitely want to avoid. Also, when shooting video the sensor read-out can sync up with rapid movement, meaning that the likes of a helicopter’s rotor blades can appear entirely static, or else wildly distorted in still images.

(Image credit: Canon)

Unlike a rolling shutter, a global shutter captures information from all of the sensor’s pixels at the same time. This can help eliminate the image distortion associated with rolling shutters, which is why a global shutter is typically associated with high-end video cameras, such as the Canon EOS C700 GS PL (above). However, there is a slight trade-off, as global shutters have some associated issues, such as lower native sensitivity and greater image noise. We’re told that this is due in part to additional wiring required on-chip, which reduces the available light-sensitive area on each photosite. Plus, we also need to factor in when writing our wish list that cameras with global shutters are very expensive.

Check out our guide to the best mirrorless cameras in the world

Canon EOS R1 autofocus: Forget Dual Pixel AF, how about Quad Pixel AF?

Canon EOS R1 expected to have new Quad Pixel AF systemThis could allow for enhanced AF across both horizontal and vertical axesShould improve focusing on subjects whose edge is parallel to your camera

Also inevitably enhanced with the release of a Canon EOS R1 will be the camera’s autofocus performance, which means, we understand, an all-new AF system. Canon filed a patent for a Quad Pixel AF sensor back in 2020, and this could be the logical next step up and on from its much-trumpeted Dual Pixel AF phase detection system. It makes sense that ‘QPAF’ could debut in an EOS R1, with Dual Pixel AF having been around since 2013. Still, 45 megapixels and a global shutter would be quite the achievement, so currently the jury’s out – and there is a school of thought that suggests Canon may choose to play it safe and use the 45MP sensor seen in its EOS R5.

(Image credit: Canon)

Briefly, the advantages of a Quad Pixel AF system include enhanced AF performance across both horizontal and vertical axes, which it’s believed will improve focusing on subjects with edges that are parallel to the camera. It does this by, as the name suggests, having four photodiodes per sensor sub-pixel, rather than the two of the Dual Pixel AF setup. These are arranged in a 2 x 2 grid, enabling phase detection to do its thing across both the horizontal and vertical axes (see above).

We’re expecting this improved accuracy to come with newly improved eye, face and animal tracking on the Canon EOS R1, which would bring the camera up to a world-class level of performance. Such a system would give the likes of Sony’s Real-time Tracking AF, which was a big leap forward for autofocus when it was introduced, a run for its money.

Canon EOS R1 design: a bigger body and pro-level design

Built-in vertical gripExtra large 4in LCD screenCanon’s best ever EVF

It stands to reason that a camera that’s more powerful than the existing EOS R3, and which is built to withstand the inevitable knocks that come with professional usage, will mean a larger bulkier body than Canon’s flagship DSLR. Given the audience Canon undoubtedly hopes it will appeal to, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a built-in vertical handgrip on an EOS R1, which would mean additional weight as well as bulk.

A larger body also fits with the latest rumors suggesting that the EOS R1 will have a larger rear screen than we’ve seen before on a model of this type – possibly up to 4 inches in size, according to latest speculation from the Canon Rumors website. This would also be good reason for us to imagine a larger, recognisably EOS-1D X Mark III-like ergonomic design; however, current discussion suggests the weight will be less than that of a comparable DSLR. Increased portability without compromising on performance is, after all, what mirrorless cameras are supposed to be all about.

The much smaller EOS R5 (Image credit: Canon)

As well as the rumored larger screen, we’ll likely see a top plate display familiar from pro and semi-pro DSLRs. There’s currently some debate as to whether this will be the usual monochrome, or color, or will in fact provide an option to switch between the two; as well as over whether or not users will be able to customize what the display shows.

Something else that will be going large, we’re hearing, will be the camera’s resolution. At the time of writing, 45 megapixels is being suggested as the sweet spot for a camera of this ilk. While this offers a degree of future proofing, and allows professionals to potentially have their images blown up to billboard size, Canon will also be conscious of the fact that those using the camera will need to be able to work fast, especially when transferring and uploading images to be used nigh-on instantly on news feeds, websites, and in the next day’s papers. 

In terms of the framing of those shots, we understand that the camera will have a large and very high-resolution EVF – it stands to reason that this will be the highest in the EOS R series so far, with a rapid refresh rate and no blackout being claimed.

Canon EOS R1 Sensor: How many pixels?

Most likely 45MP, Could still be a 21MP sensorLess likely to be a world-first 90MP

Rumors are increasingly pointing to the 45MP sensor, similar to the Canon EOS R5, which in turn would see the EOS R1 close to the Sony A1. We think 45MP is the sensible bet and the maximum resolution for the EOS R1, especially if it’s going to be a high-performance sports camera. 

The rumored 90MP sensor with a 300MP pixel shift shooting mode is much more likely in a potential Canon EOS R5 II, a camera designed primarily for all-purpose photography for which resolution is of greater value over sustained speed. 

Using the same 21MP resolution as the EOS R3 could maximize the EOS R1’s performance including burst speeds ever further, but it could be harder to justify the rumored camera over the action EOS R3. 

(Image credit: Canon)

Another reason that the 45MP would make more sense is that 8K video would be possible – that’s something that can’t be achieved with a 21MP sensor. 

Whether Canon is able to make a 45MP camera with burst speeds in the region of 30fps and feature a global shutter. That’s the part we are not so sure about.

Canon EOS R1 performance: built for speed

Dual CFexpress card slotsUltra high capacity LP-E19 battery1,000-raw shot buffer

Since the Canon EOS R1 is expected to be a pro-level workhorse, with the requisite impressive burst rates and buffer capability, it stands to reason that it needs dual card slots right? The latest rumors are that these will both be CFexpress media slots and, unlike on Canon’s EOS R3, there will be no option to use SD cards. 

Of course, we’re expecting to see significantly higher burst speeds than the 20fps offered by the EOS-1D X Mark III, although just how far Canon can push these remains to be seen. And pros would want Canon 1DX Mark III-level performance, Canon’s flagship DSLR that manages 1000 raws at 20fps, or unlimited JPEGs, and blows the Sony A1 performance out the water.  

(Image credit: Future)

In terms of battery, the latest news is that this will be the LP-E19, as used in the EOS-1D X series, or a variation of it. In those DSLR camera the battery offers a staggering 2,850-shot life, and while we might not realize that level of performance in a mirrorless EOS R1, it should satisfy pro action photographers.

Much is being made of mirrorless cameras’ hybrid functionality these days, and every manufacturer is keen to push its setup as one that’s as capable for videography as it is for stills. Information about a Canon EOS R1’s likely video capabilities is a little thin on the ground right now, but the smart money is on it featuring technology that has trickled down from Canon’s video-dedicated Cinema EOS series.

(Image credit: Canon)

Final word

The Canon EOS R1 could be a true flagship all-rounder that showcases all of Canon’s cutting-edge mirrorless tech in one body, much like the Sony A1. 

Whenever it arrives – and with a considerable weight of expectation on its shoulders in terms of its specs, features, and performance, we believe the Canon EOS R1 will be a true flagship all-rounder that showcases the best of the brand’s mirrorless technology, and a worthy successor to what’s likely to be Canon’s last flagship pro DSLR.

These are the best Canon cameras you can buy right now

Read More 

Everything we know about Aquaman 2, which is set to be the final movie in the DC Extended Universe.

No DC Comics character has made a bigger splash at the box office than Arthur Curry. Aquaman 2 therefore became inevitable as soon as its predecessor swam into theaters in 2018, though making a return to the big screen has been anything but plain sailing for the king of the seven seas.

Since Jason Momoa’s Aquaman swam off into the metaphorical sunset at the end of his first solo movie, there have been significant changes at both Warner Bros and DC. In 2022, Warner became part of the new Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) conglomerate, and there have subsequently been numerous changes at a management level. Closer to home, movie adaptations of DC Comics properties are now the responsibility of Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn and Peter Safran, the joint CEOs of a new-look DC Studios. That’s meant a massive shake-up of Warner’s superhero slate, with an entirely new line-up of DC movies and TV shows on the way, kicking off with Gunn’s own Superman: Legacy in 2025.

What that means for the forthcoming Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is unclear, especially now that the movie has been through several reshoots – there’s even been some back and forth over whether a Batman (or two) might make an appearance. 

There are a few things we do know for sure, however. Momoa is definitely back as the eponymous underwater hero, and the Aquaman 2 release date is (currently) set at December 20, 2023. Warner Bros‘ have also provided an official synopsis, telling us that, “When an ancient power is unleashed, Aquaman must forge an uneasy alliance with an unlikely ally to protect Atlantis, and the world, from irreversible devastation.” 

Below we sift through the Hollywood flotsam and jetsam to tell you everything you need to know about the Aquaman 2 release date, cast, story and more. 

Aquaman 2 release date: December 20, 2023

Jason Momoa returns as Arthur Curry, the king of Atlantis, in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. (Image credit: Warner Bros.)

The first Aquaman dived into theaters in December 2018, and came out on top in a month that also boasted the releases of Mary Poppins Returns, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Bumblebee. It also remains the highest grossing DC movie at the box office to date, so it’s no surprise that Warner Bros initially targeted another December debut for the sequel in the hope that lightning might strike twice. 

Aquaman 2‘s release date was originally set for December 16, 2022 – almost exactly four years after the first movie’s release – but since then the movie has suffered a number of delays.

As was the case with many blockbusters, VFX work on Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom was held up by effects houses becoming overloaded during the Covid-19 pandemic. That led to the movie being pushed back to March 17, 2023. Then, in August 2022, Warner Bros shuffled its schedule, pushing the Aquaman 2 release date back to December 25, 2023. The movie’s since been pulled forward a few days but not by much – as it stands, the movie will be aiming to make a splash in theaters on December 20, 2023.

But that’s not the end of the story, because Aquaman’s return to the screen has faced more obstacles than an expedition to the deepest depths of the Trench. 

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom was originally given the green light by then Warner Bros movie boss Toby Emmerich and his DC Films sidekick Walter Hamada. Principal photography wrapped in January 2022, as director James Wan confirmed in an Instagram post:

But just a few months later, both Emmerich and Hamada had departed the company, and by October 2022, Safran (who’d already produced both Aquaman movies) and Gunn had been announced as the new guys at the helm of DC Studios. 

When DC’s latest, extremely hyped dynamic duo announced their own slate of movies earlier this year, further adventures for Aquaman apparently weren’t part of their plans. Even so, they did confirm that Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom would – along with the already-in-production Shazam! Fury of the Gods, The Flash and Blue Beetle – were still heading for the big screen.

Meanwhile, an extensive report in The Hollywood Reporter has said that, throughout 2022 and into early 2023, the sequel went through “uninspiring” test screenings and a couple of rounds of reshoots. Even more reshoots reportedly took place in New Zealand in June, “an unprecedented number, even for a movie of this scale”.

The fact that WBD continues to invest significant amounts of cash in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom suggests they’re still banking on it making significant waves when it eventually makes land in theaters – indeed, after the disappointing box office performance of the Black Adam, Shazam! and The Flash movies over the last 12 months, the pressure is on. That said, even after Warner made the unexpected decision to scrap the Batgirl movie bound for Max, it remains extremely rare for a Hollywood studio to write off an expensive blockbuster tentpole – especially not the follow up to a smash hit like the first Aquaman. 

Don’t bet against further delays to the Aquaman 2 release date, however. With Hollywood in the midst of actors’ and writers’ strikes, a report in Variety suggests that WBD may be considering postponing of several of its releases, as union rules prevent stars from promoting their movies – something that could severely dent their box office prospects. Dune 2 (one of the most anticipated new movies of 2023, due in November) seems most likely to be affected, but if the industrial action continues, the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom release date may also be hit.

Aquaman 2 trailer

Despite rumors she’d be cut from Aquaman 2, trailer footage screened at CinemaCon featured Amber Heard’s Mera. (Image credit: Warner Bros)

The closest most of us have come to laying eyes on actual Aquaman 2 visuals have come courtesy of star Jason Momoa, who supplied a first glimpse of Arthur Curry’s new black Stealth Suit in a September 2021 Instagram post (click right to see it):

And a few weeks later, the DC Fandome virtual event in October 2021 featured a sneak peek at Aquaman 2, including contributions from stars Jason Momoa and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, director James Wan and producer Peter Safran, concept art and behind-the-scenes photography – highlights included Black Manta in training, monsters on sand dunes, and some awesome submarine tech.

Sightings of an actual Aquaman 2 trailer, however, have been limited to attendees of CinemaCon, the annual Las Vegas jamboree when Hollywood studios show off their wares to exhibitors, theater owners and journalists. 

According to Deadline, attendees at Warner Bros’ two-hour presentation were treated to a first look at footage from Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. The biggest revelation is arguably that Arthur now has a son, but there’s a lot more on the new king of Atlantis’s sea food platter than fatherhood. Looking for counsel from his human dad, Thomas, he says that, “I’m supposed to be a king, to bring the land and sea together.”  “Sometimes not giving up is the most heroic thing you can do,” comes Curry Sr’s response.

Arthur’s challenge is made even greater by the presence of Earth-dwelling nemesis Black Manta, who appears to be the main threat of the movie – the fact he shouts “I’m going to kill Aquaman and destroy everything he holds dear” is pretty strong evidence for the prosecution. 

This first Aquaman 2 trailer also implies that Arthur and his estranged half-brother, Orm, will join forces second time out.  In fact, Orm even tells his sibling, “If you lead, Atlantis will follow…” 

Aquaman 2 cast

Jason Momoa will once again talk with the fishes at the head of the Aquaman 2 cast. (Image credit: Warner Bros)

Here’s the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom cast as it stands:

Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry/AquamanAmber Heard as MeraYahya Abdul-Mateen II as David Kane/Black MantaNicole Kidman as Queen AtlannaPatrick Wilson as OrmRandall Park as Dr Stephen ShinDolph Lundgren as King NereusTemuera Morrison as Tom CurryIndya Moore as KarshonJani Zhao as StingrayVincent Regan as AtlanPilou Asbæk as TBC

After the success of the first movie, it was inevitable that Jason Momoa would return to play Arthur Curry/Aquaman for the fifth time (after Aquaman, Justice League (both versions), and brief cameos in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and The Flash. 

And despite extensive rumors that Amber Heard might not return as Xebelian princess Mera, the actor used her Instagram feed to confirm her return with an image of herself reading a book on set (see below). She also featured in the footage screened at CinemaCon. 

After Arthur Curry showed mercy to his scheming half-brother Orm (aka the self-styled Ocean Master) at the end of the first movie, James Wan regular Patrick Wilson is back in the Aquaman 2 cast. Though, as this post from Wan’s Instagram feed shows, he’ll have a very different look second time out – does this count as ‘Tom Hanks in Cast Away‘ cosplay?

Warner Bros’ 2022 movie preview confirmed that Nicole Kidman will also be back to keep the squabbling siblings in check as their mother, Queen Atlanna. The character may get a belated chance to rekindle her romance with Arthur’s dad, Thomas (played by The Book of Boba Fett’s Temuera Morrison) – after all, theirs was a love affair strong enough to make two disparate worlds collide.

In terms of surface dwellers, we know we’ll be seeing more from Watchmen/Candyman/The Matrix Resurrections star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as the revenge-obsessed David Kane/Black Manta. And, going on what we saw in Aquaman’s end credits scene, he’ll probably be in league with Dr Stephen Shin, the marine biologist-turned-Atlantis-obsessive played by WandaVision’s Randall Park (also confirmed to return).

As for the underwater types, there’s no official word yet on whether Willem Dafoe is reprising his role as Arthur’s Atlantean mentor, Vulko, but we do know that Dolph Lundgren is back in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom as Mera’s father, King Nereus of Xebel.

As for newcomers, Pose star Indya Moore has signed up to play Karshon, a (traditionally evil) human/shark hybrid from DC comics who’s definitely not to be confused with The Suicide Squad‘s King Shark. 

Meanwhile, The Hollywood Reporter reported that Jani Zhao has signed up to play a new character called Stingray. Vincent Regan is on board as Atlan, the original king of Atlantis, a role played by The Witcher‘s Graham McTavish in the first movie.

And given Pilou Asbæk’s history as a bad guy in Game of Thrones, we think it’s likely his as-yet-unconfirmed role in the Aquaman 2 cast (reported by Deadline ) will skew more towards the dark side than the light. Fans are speculating that he’ll be playing Mongo, tyrannical ruler of the city of Necrus, an underwater rival to Atlantis that’s likely to be integral to the Aquaman 2 story. The fact that Necrus was the production title of the movie would appear to be a particularly big giveaway.

Aquaman 2 story

Michael Keaton reportedly filmed scenes as Batman for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. (Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)

The movie arrives at a major turning point for Warner Bros and DC. This is the final film in a sequence that began with Man of Steel in 2013, taking in the likes of Wonder Woman, two Suicide Squads, and Justice League along the way – here’s how to watch the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) movies in order. Admittedly, DC has never been as good as Marvel at creating an interweaving, MCU-style shared universe for its superheroes, but as Gunn and Safran prepare to take the franchise in a different direction with their new-look DC Universe, this really is the end of an era.

At one point, Aquaman 2 was slated to arrive ahead of The Flash, and the subsequent release date musical chairs led to some changes in the script department. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Michael Keaton originally filmed scenes as Batman, with former DC movie boss Walter Hamada envisioning the ’80s/’90s Caped Crusader as a mentor figure in the mould of Nick Fury from the Marvel movies. 

But that created a problem when Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom was briefly due to arrive in theaters before The Flash, where Keaton’s Batman is reintroduced. The studio therefore decided to shoot replacement scenes with Ben Affleck, the DCEU’s Batman since Batman v Superman: Dawn of justice, wearing the famous cowl instead. 

Now that Aquaman 2 is once again following The Flash into the world, however, it looks like there’ll be no appearances from any Batman. The Hollywood Reporter’s source says that Gunn and Safran “do not want to promise a movie universe that will not come to fruition, nor tie it down excessively to past failures”. Ouch!

Beyond the involvement (or not) of the Dark Knight(s), director James Wan has hinted that the Aquaman 2 plot will go to darker places than its predecessor.

“I think the second one is a little bit more serious, a little bit more relevant in the world we are living in today,” Wan teased at DC’s virtual FanDome event in August 2020 (via Deadline). “I think that’s where it wants to go.”

Arthur Curry’s relationship with half-brother Orm is set to be very different in Aquaman 2. (Image credit: Warner Bros)

The director expanded on this theme in a June 2023 interview with The Hollywood Reporter: “We’re dealing with issues like climate change. We’re not afraid to lean into that in a big way, because the Aquaman comic book, even way back when, has always been environmentally conscious. He’s always been someone who’s fought to keep the ocean clean, and it feels more relevant in the world that we’re living in today. So this movie has something to talk about, but it’s still a fun action-fantasy movie.”

What does all this mean for Arthur Curry now that he’s donned Aquaman’s classic gold and green armor, got his hands on the Trident of Atlan, and taken his place on the throne of Atlantis? While he and the water-manipulating Mera were seemingly in a good place by the end of the first movie – and now reportedly have a kid – Hollywood convention and the needs of storytelling dictate it won’t be plain sailing this time out. 

Past form suggests Orm won’t make life easy for his half-brother – though an Instagram post from Patrick Wilson early in production may have muddied the waters slightly, with its cryptic #brothersdontshakehandsbrothersgottahug hashtag? 

Based on those aforementioned trailer reports, it looks like Orm is going to be the “unlikely ally” who, according to Warner Bros’ synopsis, Aquaman “must forge an easy alliance with” in order “to protect Atlantis, and the world, from irreversible devastation.”

This was apparently confirmed by Wan at CinemaCon (h/t Deadline), who said that, “It’s an action-adventure story with a really fun bromance between Arthur and Orm. Orm was a villain the first time around, but this time Arthur needs him.”

As for the identity of the mysterious ‘Lost Kingdom’ of the Aquaman 2 title, that’s yet to be confirmed via official channels, but this on-set photo posted by Wan in June 2022 may have offered up a big clue:

The ‘Necrus’ mentioned on the clapperboard is big news in DC comics. Also known as the Black City, this domed underwater city has no fixed location, only appears for brief moments in time, and is ruled by Mongo, a self-confessed hater of surface-dwellers. He’d be a prime candidate to be the movie’s principal underwater antagonist, so it’s easy to see why many are speculating that this is Pilou Asbæk’s as-yet-unconfirmed role.

Even if Mongo is the lead aquatic villain, David Kane – aka Black Manta – is primed for a bigger role in the Aquaman 2 story.

“Now, we have a character who’s more mature, who has more time to breathe,” star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II told Variety. “And we get to understand him and some of his values and some of his motives. Hopefully in Aquaman 2, we can present a more well-rounded version of David Kane.

“In the first film, we sort of got to meet him, but mostly it was about Black Manta,” he continued. “And this one, my hope is that we can meet David Kane a bit more and find out what makes him tick, and some of the things that he wants and struggles with.”

In the first movie, Black Manta blamed Arthur Curry for the death of his father during a submarine skirmish, and subsequently became obsessed with having his revenge on the Aquaman. Having survived their previous encounter by the skin of his teeth – even when armed with superpowered Atlantean weapons – he’s unlikely to give up until Arthur Curry is dead. 

Black Manta will probably be assisted Dr Stephen Shin, a character who’s made the journey to the screen from DC Comics’ New 52 Aquaman reboot. During the Aquaman end credits scene Shin agreed to help Black Manta find Aquaman – if Black Manta gives him concrete evidence about the existence of Atlantis.

Unfortunately, Black Manta’s mission to dish out revenge may be bad news for Thomas Curry, if he decides that justice is best served by murdering the father of the man he believes killed his own dad.  

And don’t be surprised if Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom also makes a return trip to the Trench, the dark, scary region of the ocean whose monstrous inhabitants kept Atlanna prisoner in Aquaman – especially now that the proposed The Trench movie spin-off has been dropped by Warner Bros (as reported by Variety).

The future of Aquaman

Like Aquaman’s, The Flash’s future in the DC Universe is currently uncertain. (Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures/DC Comics)

Although – SPOILERS AHEAD FOR THE FLASH – Jason Momoa’s Arthur Curry made a brief cameo at the end of the Scarlet Speedster movie, it’s currently unknown whether there’ll be further underwater DC action for the man from Atlantis. At the same time, never say never….

While Gunn and Safran haven’t confirmed Aquaman’s future in the new-look DCU, Momoa seems confident he’ll be involved somehow. “We have a special relationship… I wish I could say more,” Momoa said at the Sundance festival in January (h/t Deadline). I’ll always be Aquaman, and there’s a lot of evolution for that. So I’m not going anywhere and it’s very exciting.”

A clearly delighted Momoa also said in a video tweeted by DCVerso that “I got some really good news, great news with Warner Bros. Wish I could tell you! Peter, I love you. James, I love you.” Could be promising?

And he expanded a little more in an interview with Total Film (via GamesRadar+). “Peter [Safran]’s my producer [on Aquaman 2], and is a dear friend. I absolutely think Aquaman will be involved in the DCU. It’s on, bro – there’s no one bigger than Aquaman!”

Of course, if Aquaman 2 does decent business at the box office, Warner Bros are unlikely to turn down the opportunity to dip their toes in the water once again. And with Gunn reportedly dipping into the DC back catalogue to include Hawkgirl, Mister Terrific and a Green Lantern in his Superman: Legacy, there’s clearly room in his DC vision for characters to pop up in other superheroes’ movies. For now, however, the future of Aquaman is one to file under “watch this space”.  

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