Collision of Ambition and Wickedness Emerges

Read Time:5 Minute, 1 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Swamp Thing
/ –

Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 1982, 2023 MVD 4K/Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Wes Craven
Writer(s): Wes Craven
Cast: Louis Jourdan, Adrienne Barbeau, Ray Wise, David Hess, Nicholas Worth, Don Knight, Al Ruban, Dick Durock
Where To Watch: available August 8, 2023; pre-order now here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Sit back, relax, and step into the world of SWAMP THING, the cinematic brainchild of renowned director Wes Craven. A fascinating mix between action flick, sci-fi, and the uncanny, this film offers a fresh perspective on “superhero” narratives. Set against the picturesque yet eerie wilderness, filled with flora and fauna, SWAMP THING promises to stimulate your eyes and mind in a nostalgic feast.

Our storyline orbits around the zealous Dr. Alec Holland (played by Ray Wise) and the unyielding Alice Cable (portrayed by Adrienne Barbeau). As they traverse the path of scientific discovery, they cross paths with the malevolent Arcane (Louis Jourdan). This collision of ambition and wickedness triggers the birth of SWAMP THING, a sentient force of nature with the mental prowess of a human and the raw power of the wild.

Originating from the minds of Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson, the character of SWAMP THING has been brought to life by a constellation of notable artists, including Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman, Mike Mignola, Mark Millar, and Scott Snyder. The film version might not be a carbon copy of the source material, but it nonetheless carves out its unique artistic space.

The renowned horror maestro, Craven, doesn't shy away from introducing spine-chilling elements into his superhero adaptation. The atmospheric and symbolic swamps are a captivating canvas for the unfolding drama. Amid the fauna, an unlikely love story blooms between the central characters, lending a fairy-tale quality to the narrative. (and some fascinating unanswered questions)

Elements of the movie show their age, and humor seems forced at times. The depiction of the female lead occasionally succumbs to stereotypes, and the lack of consistent character development muddles the narrative. The beautiful restoration is a passion project; I felt like I had just sat in the theater to watch it on day one. With the more extended unrated international version also available, this should be a must-own for any genre fans.

The film score by Harry Manfredini crafts a cohesive landscape that dovetails the visual narrative. In contrast, the deliberate use of vibrant colors, notably neon green, formulates an otherworldly aura, enhancing the supernatural theme of the movie.

Craven's SWAMP THING is not just a beastly hero of the wild but a romantic entity caught in the perpetual struggle between good and evil. The narrative is replete with symbolic echoes, reminiscent of timeless literary works like those penned by Oscar Wilde.

SWAMP THING is an exciting blend of genres and narrative devices that stands out in the cinema. It provides a unique cinematic experience that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking. If you are open to an innovative cocktail of comic book genre, horror, and romance, SWAMP THING might be the film for your next cozy weekend. Remember, its imperfections are part of its charm, and its creativity is a testament to the dynamic world of cinema.

DISC 1: 4K ULTRA HD SPECIAL FEATURES:
– 2023 4K Restoration (16-Bit Scan of the Original Camera Negative) of both the US Theatrical PG Version and Unrated International Version of the film presented in its original 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio in Dolby Vision / HDR
– Audio: DTS-HD Master 2.0 Mono, Spanish Mono
– Optional English Subtitles
– Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Wes Craven moderated by Sean Clark (Theatrical / PG Version)
– Audio Commentary with Makeup Effects Artist William Munn moderated by Michael Felsher (Theatrical / PG Version)
– Collectible "4K LaserVision" Mini-Poster of cover art
– Limited Edition Slipcover (First Pressing Only)

DISC 2: BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES:
– 2023 HD Restoration of both the US Theatrical PG Version and the Unrated International Version of the film presented in its original 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio
– Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Wes Craven moderated by Sean Clark (Theatrical / PG Version)
– Audio Commentary with Makeup Effects Artist William Munn moderated by Michael Felsher (Theatrical / PG Version)
– Audio: DTS-HD Master 2.0 Mono, Spanish Mono
– Optional English Subtitles
– "Tales From the Swamp" (Remastered) with Actress Adrienne Barbeau (HD, 16:56)
– "Hey Jude" with Actor Reggie Batts (HD, 14:30)
– "That Swamp Thing" with Len Wein, Creator of Swamp Thing (HD, 13:19)
– "Swamp Screen: Designing DC's Main Monster" featurette (HD, 20:32)
– "From Krug to Comics: How the Mainstream Shaped a Radical Genre Voice" featurette (HD, 17:34)
– Posters & Lobby Cards – Photo Gallery
– Photos from the Film – Photo Gallery
– William Munns' Behind the Scenes Pictures – Photo Gallery
– Behind the Scenes Photos by Geoffrey Rayle – Photo Gallery
– Theatrical Trailer (HD, 1:31)

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of MVD REWIND COLLECTION]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong