Yahya Abdul-Mateen II Says ‘Aquaman’ Has An Epic Scale

It still might be a year until fans gets to see DC’s Aquaman solo movie. But according to one of its stars, the end result will be more than worth the wait.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who is set to play the film’s version of Black Manta, recently teased the film during an interview with GQ Australia. With production on the film wrapped, Abdul-Mateen hinted that fans can expect an epic end result.

“It’s going great.” Abdul-Mateen revealed. “The scale is epic and this movie is going to be so good! I can’t say too much, but in the hands of [director] James Wan and with Jason Momoa at the helm, I think people are going to be really happy with it.”

According to Abdul-Mateen, production on Australia’s Gold Coast has gone surprisingly well, partially due to the beautiful filming locations.

“It’s just so low stress.” Abdul-Mateen explained. “I love it and have been telling everyone that if they ever get the chance they should come visit. I kind of assumed all of Australia was like the Gold Coast – so I was telling people Australians just work out and go to the beach. Like, Australia has it figured out! But then I went to Sydney and it was nothing like the Gold Coast – but I still loved it.”

While fans have yet to see Abdul-Mateen onscreen as Black Manta, he’s already acquired quite a bit of love, especially after trolling fans with a “first look” at his costume. But with regards to the actual film, Abdul-Mateen needed to undergo quite a bit of preparation, including bulking up.

“It’s been about five days a week in the gym and doing fight training, too.” Abdul-Mateen revealed. “I have a love-hate relationship with working out. I do not enjoy the experience when I’m doing it, but I never regret it. I think I’m in the best shape of my life.”

Aquaman is set to debut in theaters on December 21st, 2018.