Black Manta - Figures
Since the DC Extended Universe Aquaman film in 2018, Black Manta has gained increasing popularity. The aquatic villain's imposing presence in the comics now reaches into the larger fandom. As Aquaman continues to appear in films, Black Manta's notoriety will follow. Black Manta figures may be limited now, but the number is sure to increase with more DC films. Black Manta's most highly detailed figure to date is "ArtFX DC Universe Black Manta Forever Villains."
ArtFX DC Universe Black Manta Forever Villains Figure
This scale figure from Kotobukiya shows the Atlantean villain in a realistic, menacing form. Black Manta poses in a wide stance, aggressively wielding his twin blades. His intensely muscular physique shows through his skintight adaptive suit. The sculpting shows off each vein and crease of his muscles and the strain of the fabric trying to contain them. His disturbing, amphibian helmet shines in a silvery metallic paint. It connects to his breathing apparatus perched high on his back. The red, glinting eyes on the helmet reflect his devious intent while hiding his identity within. Magnetic plates in his feet keep him secured to the accompanying base.
- Product Name: ArtFX+ DC Universe Black Manta Forever Villains
- Series: DC Comics
- Product Line: ArtFX+
- Manufacturer: Kotobukiya
- Sculptor: Erick Sosa
- Specifications: Painted, non-articulated, 1/10 scale figure
- Materials: PVC (phthalate-free), ABS, magnet
- Height (Approx.): 195mm | 7.7"
About Black Manta
Black Manta is a DC Comics supervillain and the archenemy of Aquaman. He debuted in Aquaman #35 in 1967. A ruthless underwater mercenary, Black Manta usually works alone but occasionally teams up with villainous leagues such as the Legion of Doom and Suicide Squad. He made his live-action film debut in 2018's Aquaman.
Background
The character Black Manta was created by Bob Haney and Nick Cardy. In Adventure Comics #452, Black Manta reveals his face for the first time. Aquaman and the audience discover that Black Manta is a civilian black man planning to take over the sea as a space free of oppression. His motives change over time along with his origin stories.
Black Manta received his first origin story in the 1993 series, depicting him as a young boy who enjoyed playing in the Chesapeake Bay. While playing, he was kidnapped and forced to work on a ship. He signaled to Aquaman's dolphin friends for help but failed to get their attention. After killing his tormentors and escaping, he vowed revenge against Aquaman. Other versions detail his imprisonment in Arkham Asylum and his torture by interdimensional beings. In the Brightest Day timeline, his first name is revealed to be David. However, his surname changes across timelines.
Abilities
Black Manta possesses a high level of scientific intellect, particularly in engineering. Although highly skilled in hand-to-hand combat, he often uses strategic planning in battle. Black Manta created his suit to withstand an oceanic environment. Later adaptations include a jet propulsion system, a telepathic scrambler, and numerous weapons. In one storyline, Black Manta barters with a demon, exchanging his soul to become a human-manta ray hybrid. Aquaman undoes this transformation, returning Black Manta to a fully human state.
Other Important DC Universe Characters
As of 2021, Black Manta has not received his own series or spinoff. Instead, he appears almost exclusively within Aquaman related media as well as DC villain properties. His connection with other characters motivates his story appearances and defines who he is as a villain.
Aquaman
Aquaman is a main DC superhero created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger. He debuted in More Fun Comics #73 in 1941 and received a solo series in 1962. Though his origin varies over time, the most recognized version depicts him as a half-human, half-Atlantean adventurer and eventual King of Atlantis. Aquaman's powers relate to his oceanic origins, including his ability to communicate with ocean life and his enhanced senses and durability. His main weapon, the Trident of Poseidon, allows him to perform magical attacks, such as cryokinesis.
Mera
Mera is the former crown princess of Xebel, current Queen of Atlantis, and Aquaman's wife. Initially ordered to assassinate Aquaman, Mera went against her father's wishes and fell in love with the hero. Her affiliation with Aquaman pitted her against Black Manta on many occasions. After learning of their engagement, Black Manta attempted to kill Mera to hurt Aquaman. Her combat skills and swordsmanship evenly match her with Black Manta. She fights him again alongside Superman and the Flash after Black Manta announces his affiliation with the Legion of Doom.
Aqualad
Aqualad is a half-human, half-Atlantean hybrid superhero known by the name Jackson Hyde. He initially knows nothing of his heritage as his mother desperately tries to hide him from his father, Black Manta. After he learns of his hydrokinetic abilities, Jackson leaves to join the Teen Titans as a young superhero. His activity with the Teen Titans attracts his father's attention, who then capture him to acquire the Black Pearl. Together with the Titans, Jackson defeats his father and officially dons the title Aqualad.
Links
ArtFX DC Universe Black Manta Forever Villains
Aquaman Label
DC Comics Label