If there was a DC superhero that has been prey to many a mockery, it would have to be Aquaman. From his supposedly utterly useless power (unless, you know, they’re fighting in his turf) to the parodies the likes of Mermaid Man in Spongebob Squarepants, you know he’s had his share of downs.

So when he was said to be part of the Justice League roster, it was a toss-up for fans. Until Jason Momoa showed up in that trailer looking more like a badass tattooed Triton than the blond fish boy that has always been linked to the role.

And when we see more of him in his solo movie, it seems that director James Wan will add elements of horror to the set. As if Momoa’s very intimidating air and glare aren’t enough to scare the bad guys away.

Speaking to IGN, Wan revealed that he is excited to explore the possibilities of the Aquaman universe, especially since he hasn’t really been the major star of a superhero film. He also hinted on:

“…the opportunity to explore this universe and bring a bit of my horror element into this, the deep sea, the scary world, and then also explore the wondrous world of Atlantis.”

From Wans’ take on The Conjuring and Saw, this promise is not far from being realized. Maybe this time, Aquaman will really feel like the king of Atlantis this time around—that is, Atlantis with a touch of the deep, dark unknown.

It almost makes me wish that the Aquaman in Injustice 2 was modeled after Momoa’s take on the role. Then there’s no question who I’ll be picking frequently as a fighter. If even the Caped Crusader can’t make him say yes (more or less) to be part of the team, you know it’s the Aquaman we’ve been waiting for.

Justice League is coming to theaters on Nov. 17, 2017, while the Aquaman movie will arrive the year after on July 27, 2018.

Read: Here's another trailer you must re-watch again and again: Suicide Squad remix trailer.