Namor the Sub-Mariner has been a huge part of Marvel since some of the comic book company's earliest days. The King of Atlantis and lord of the seas has been portrayed as a villain, anti-hero, and one of Earth's mightiest throughout his varied career but remains a consistent part of the landscape.
Although the complexities of the character make him extremely compelling, some fans have unpopular opinions regarding his life in the comics, alongside his friends, family, and the Kingdom of Atlantis. Indeed, Namor's corner of the Marvel Universe is a vast one, full of daring adventures, underwater politics, and mystical mayhem, so mixed opinions are expected.
Does Anyone Even Like Namor?
Namor must be pretty popular considering the longevity of the character. He's been featured in countless team-up titles and boasted runs of his own. It's the moral grey areas that the King operates in that's made Namor so interesting to read, but one Reddit has a harsh reality to set upon the Atlantean's fans.
In one thread, the writer asks the poignant questions, "Why does everyone like Namor again? Didn't he murder quadrillions of billions of billions of people just to protect Atlantis?" It's a fair assessment with plenty of comments sharing the same sentiment that readers and indeed other characters only tolerate Namor. Yet he remains a key part of the universe, suggesting his darkness is both appealing and a vital component to create intriguing conflict for Marvel's stories.
He's Part Of Marvel's Most Iconic
There's always going to be a debate surrounding the most prestigious or iconic in Marvel. There are some real contenders out there, but one Reddit writer suggests that to them "it's the classic Civil War Issue 1 Namorita Vs. Nitro which resulted (in) his explosion that was memorable."
As wasn't iconic enough to make it into the live-action adaptation, so how influential is it?
Namor Is More Like Orm Than Aquaman
The comparisons between Aquaman and Namor are completely natural since both are comic book characters famous for their links to the mythical city of Atlantis. The comparison between Namor and Orm or the Ocean Master is rarely made though. In one Reddit thread, a writer makes this exact parallel.
In response to a question regarding the differences between Namor and the Justice League hero, the asked, "Have you watched the Aquaman film? Namor is Orm... with ankle wings." Their explanation doesn't go too far beyond the basics but there are so many vital differences between the two characters; including their motivations in regards to their home of Atlantis as well as their relationships with their people. Orm is perhaps far more dangerous and selfish than Namor is when it comes to protecting his home.
Atlantis Had A Huge Impact On The World
The mysterious Wakanda might have made a huge impact on the world when it emerged answering any questions society had about their way of life, but arguably Atlantis may make a bigger one. One Reddit outlines how everything would change thanks to the magical technology they have access to proclaiming "Welcome to a world where the laws of physics are merely guidelines."
While they talk about cheating death, changing the universe, and shifting air pollution, it's clear that this utopian ideal is not really what Namor's Atlantis would bring to the table. They are perhaps not as advanced as the writer claims, and what's more, the political and potential reality-breaking consequences of this rising nation and their magic could completely split the Marvel Universe.
DC's Atlantis Would Beat Marvel's Atlantis
There's unpopular opinion for any Aquaman fan to see their Atlantis lose the war.
Meanwhile, one writer controversially argues that the DC Atlantis is superior due to Aquaman being a more central figure. Although they say that it's "Also worth noting that DC Atlantis was actually a full continent, before being broken up into 7 Kingdoms," their narrative-based argument doesn't hold up as Namor holds a history of great leadership and has driven his Atlantis to countless victories. If DC's did win it would be due to population and size.
Namor Vs. Aquaman Would Be A Closer Fight Than Expected
In the same thread, the talk turns to a battle between Namor and Aquaman themselves where the Reddit says that "I personally don't see how Namor would survive a single swing from Aquaman's trident." The utter defeat Namor would face is certainly a view a lot of Marvel fans wouldn't hold.
A counterpoint is made that is far more reasonable though, with one Reddit saying "Namor is able to hold his own against characters like Thor while underwater and current Namor has control over water. I think he could beat Aquaman in a 1v1 fight." The history of Namor's conflicts in the comics does demonstrate his strength, resiliency, and ability to best even the mightiest of foes.
Namor Isn't Interesting On His Own
While there's plenty of comic book villains that should have their own MCU solo film, one Reddit suggests that Namor can't even sustain an interesting solo run in the source material. They in on the debate that the anti-hero is beloved because of his unpredictability and the way he interacts with those around him.
But to contrast this they controversially say that "He brings great drama but on his own, there isn't that same appeal of what is Namor going to do, or how will he react." This suggests that Namor's solo adventures have not been nearly as appealing, despite the fact that his internal monologues regarding his ideologies are also a factor in the character's continued relevance in captivating an audience.
Sue Storm Is Better Off With Namor
Sue and Namor have a complicated relationship which is usually defined by Namor's desire. It's not exactly a beloved story yet it's one Marvel continues to return to. There isn't anyone who would believe Sue would be better off with the King rather than Mr. Fantastic.
Except from one Reddit , who says "The real question here is why Sue still hasn't left Reed for Namor." It's clear for most fans why this is a terrible take, considering the viciousness of Namor and the love that Sue still shares with her husband. She certainly wouldn't want to be Queen to a tyrant!
Namor Shouldn't The MCU As A villain Turned Hero
Comic book fans may totally disagree with Black Panther sequel, they think that "If it were to happen I’d imagine him to be the bad guy until the end where it is revealed that Namor was misled into thinking Wakanda was a threat to Atlantis," thereby being manipulated into being the villain.
However, this villain turned hero gimmick likely won't work for a character who will continue to operate in the greys and isn't exactly sympathetic. What's more, fans of the comics will know that Namor isn't easily hoodwinked, meaning this kind of introduction would do a disservice to the character in the source material.
John Byrne's Run Is Not Very Good
Most fans would agree that John Byrne's run on Namor in the '90s did a great deal for the character. Nostalgia is a powerful thing and many will have grown up with this iteration of the King. One Reddit has given it a very simple review though... "It's not very good."
It's a small comment but an impactful one in a list of other beloved solo runs for Namor since this one stands out for the criticism. Yet, when looking at what the era achieved with the character it would be wrong to dismiss it with some of his defining characteristics and vital connections to his family and other heroes starting in these pages.