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Swamp Thing Reviews

Mar 23, 2025

Be movie schlock that fairs better than most thanks to Wes Craven's writing and direction. The cast is solid but not extraordinary, with the standout being the great Adrienne Barbeau as Alice Cable, playing her as a capable woman and not a damsel in distress. Behind the camera, Craven crafts a solid comic book movie that sticks fairly close to the source material. Granted, the acting is mostly cheesy, but the Swamp Thing costume holds up pretty well. Not a great film by any measure but a fun one.

Mar 21, 2025

Siendo honesto, por los antecedentes de las películas basadas en cómics de los 70’s y 80’s esperaba algo peor de “Swamp Thing”; pero, aunque esta cinta este lejos de siquiera ser en su totalidad entretenida, su primer y segundo acto me sorprendieron, tienen un aura de peligro interesante y no se delimitan en la violencia. Aunque para mi su tercer acto no encontró un rumbo claro para seguir siendo interesante. Para mi el principal problema de esta, está en maximizar las características de los personajes en pro de hacer veloz a la historia. Los personajes son malos porque tienen que serlo y exceptuando a Ferret, ninguno es siquiera interesante. Algo que me gustó fue la locación de esta, es interesante y con un toque de misterio que la vuelven tanto agradable visualmente cómo tétrica. Siendo desde mi punto de vista su mayor acierto. Porque fuera de ahí la película en casi todos sus aspectos es muy plana, recurriendo a cientos de clichés de películas de acción de la época, pero sin una coacción dentro de la misma que las justifique. Viendo esta película en retrospectiva, ya todos sabemos el genio del terror que fue Wes Craven, siendo Elm Street y las primeras Scream cómo sus principales obras, y aunque esta película está lejos de la genialidad de estas hoy en día sagas, tiene destellos de calidad que la hicieron interesante. Hay una escena entre lanchas que está bien realizada, al igual que cada vez que los personajes se meten al pantano se crea una atmosfera de angustia. Si prestamos atención a este si hay primitivos rasgos que serían aplicados de forma sublime en sus futuros films. Al final si recomendaría esta película tanto para los fanáticos del terror cómo para los fans de los superhéroes por la misma razón, el ver una pieza importantísima que ha sido rezagada un poco injustamente por ambos géneros. Por el género del terror en ver una de las primeras obras de uno de los principales artífices de posicionar este género a niveles de popularidad inmensos, cómo para los fans de los superhéroes en ver una propuesta diametralmente opuesta al cine comercial que se hace hoy en día. Es muy posible que amos nichos no queden fascinados con el resultado final de esta, porque nunca parece que encontró su propia identidad para apoderarse de ella, pero si es un planteamiento que si eres fan de cualquiera de estos dos géneros es una parada obligatoria.

Feb 10, 2025

no, no, no, no, no, no

Sep 14, 2024

It's difficult to find one good thing to say about this movie. I think Wes Craven was high when he made it.

May 17, 2024

Strange and offbeat horror fluff from Wes Craven...Adapted from the comic book...This is basically another variation on Frankenstein ...it's kind of a darker version of the Hulk. Recommended for horror fans and Wes Craven completists.

Dec 21, 2023

Being a huge fan of DC Comics and Swamp Thing, I was pleasantly surprised to find this mostly forgotten flick was streaming. Boy, did I not know what I was getting myself into. While adapting the original comics, the film takes some liberties of its own, which comes together in one of the most boring films put to screen. With a story that feels to be the equivalent of paint drying, one of the most interesting and powerful superheroes is reduced to nothing more than a strongman in a rubber suit. Each actor performs devoid of any human emotions and fail to even deliver reactions that suit the situations they find themselves in. The blame can't fall entirely on the actors, as the dialogue feels stale, even by the 80's standard. The 3rd act has a few moments worth finding on YouTube, but as a whole, it is certainly not worth suffering through the excruciating mess. Swamp Thing fails to create anything worth remembering and now I understand just why this film has been largely forgotten.

Nov 13, 2023

The first part is kinda interesting, as is the fact that in all honesty the protagonist is not Swamp Thing but Alice Cable - and she's pretty badass. Plus, Jude is a fun supporting character, even though the movie suddenly stops caring about him. By that point, the proceedings have already become rather repetitive and, well, boring, and the familiar themes and genre cliches certainly don't help. Also, it's way too obvious that Swamp Thing is a man in a suit, and it doesn't look very flattering.

Oct 21, 2023

The idea of Swamp Thing sounds great on paper— and it was when the character got introduced in the 1970s comic books. But watching Wes Craven's 1982 feature is a harsh reminder the technology (and budget) to successfully realize creator Len Wein's vision was not yet available.

Oct 14, 2023

O Dr. Alec Holland e a sua irmã trabalham em um projeto secreto do governo em um laboratório no meio do pântano sobre recombinação de células animais com vegetais. Porém, o laboratório é atacado por um milionário chamado Arcane, que busca a vida eterna e acha que a fórmula de Holland é o caminho. Porém, no ataque, Holland derrama a sua fórmula em si e se incendeia. Desesperado, ele corre e se joga nas águas do pântano e desaparece. A fórmula reage e transforma Holland em um monstro, que parte em busca da sua vingança. O Monstro do Pântano tem todo um ar gótico na sua criação nos quadrinhos. Aqui, ele se torna uma homenagem aos filmes de monstros da Universal, como o Monstro da Lagoa Negra. Craven respeitou bem a mitologia da personagem, trazendo praticamente todos os personagens importantes. As alterações não interferem em nada. Como transformar Linda Holland em irmã de Alec, em vez de esposa, já que Craven manteve o interesse romântico mais famoso do Monstro: Abigail Cable, renomeada para Alice. Apesar de ter um orçamento maior que as suas primeiras produções, isso não resultou em um filme melhor. As caracterizações do Monstro do Pântano são risíveis, pois nota-se a borracha da roupa e sem esforço. Apesar do roteiro respeitar a história já existente do Monstro do Pântano, é muito ruim. O elenco não convence. Os personagens são todos estereótipos, não há profundidade. Pena que um diretor como Wes Craven não tenha funcionado com o personagem. Pelo menos não é a bomba que foi o filme do Homem-Coisa.

Aug 13, 2023

Ew, whenever the villian became a monster I felt like I was gonna throw up. Nevertheless, it's an alright movie.

Aug 3, 2023

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. 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

Jun 14, 2023

Filme fraco, o roteiro é fraco, as cenas são mais ou menos, o elenco é mais ou menos, e ninguém ajuda a melhorar o filme, a história é fraca, e o filme deveria ter cenas bem melhores.

Feb 19, 2023

Based on the marvel comics character of the same name. A botanist Dr. Alec Holland is placed under the protection of special government agent Alice Cable. Mad outlaw scientist Anton Arcane wants to steal Holland's research for his own nefarious ends, but an unforeseen accident during the heist turns Holland into the Swamp Thing, an enormous plant-like creature that fights back against Arcane's henchmen to save Cable. This was surprisingly the only comic book movie directed by the late Wes Craven. It's unabashedly campy which is both good and bad. But entertaining and silly enough for a first attempt to bring this comic to life. Fun action, a deliciously wicked villain, and I like Adrienne Barbeau being a very proactive love interest.

Feb 18, 2022

From the late horror director Wes Craven and based on the DC comic book This is the first attempt to adapt Swamp Thing to the screen starring Ray Wise and Adrienne Barbeau Botanist Alec Holland is on the verge of a breakthrough in his quest to wipe out world hunger, he is placed under the protection of special government agent Alice Cable Plants with recombinant DNA might be the solution But outlaw scientist Anton Arcane (Louis Jourdan) wants to steal Holland's research for his own nefarious ends Then in superhero fashion an unforeseen accident during the heist burns Holland yet what should've left him for dead instead turns the man an enormous plant-like creature that fights back against Arcane's henchmen to save Cable He's tall, green, and more in tune with Mother Nature on a bigger level A monster saves beauty; the whole Creature from the Black Lagoon scenario meets Frankenstein It's not easy to admit that this was plagued with production problems Apparently parts of his script were removed, most notably in the second half; film financiers came on set and often watched everything meticulously; plus the film was under-budgeted, which meant that most of the cool effects that should've been added to the film were lost Combining this with precarious weather conditions and dangerous swamp locusts made for a very troubled production Still Craven makes full use of the locations, showcasing the luscious nature of the swamp environment There's fun silly action, a deliciously wicked villain, a sweet romance, and I appreciate how Barbeau is very proactive than most love interests in comic book movies Some of the tonal shifts are bit off putting particularly when it gets close to the ending The climax is more like 1950s b-movie material than anything; stupid but laughably entertaining Craven's only comic book feature I suppose was meant to be like this but perhaps would've turned out differently if he had his way Thankfully this isn't a horrible movie by any means, it still has its charms Reminded me a lot of 'Toxic Avenger' in many respects

Sep 25, 2021

One from my childhood. Fun & campy horror fantasy that is intentionally weak in spots and in its dialogue to the point where Craven wants it to feel exactly like a comic book. Barbeau is great as our heroine as is Dick Durock as the creature. Also features music by Harry Manfredini who pretty much plagiarizes his own Friday the 13th I & II scores.

brendan n Super Reviewer
Jan 5, 2021

Swamp Thing is one of those concepts that struggles when it is transferred from its source material. Wes Craven might've been the right choice on paper but he struggles to create anything scary or eventful throughout the films running time. The studio clearly had its finger in the pie and the film is essentially lost. I had been excited to see this film but once it was in the bluray player I wasn't entirely convinced. Wes Craven is one of my favourite horror filmmakers but he struggled with films outside of the genre, or he struggled with producers for final credit. The film isn't without merit and some of the creature moments are intriguing, but that finale is not exactly great. 04/01/2021

Jan 5, 2021

Other than some periodically effective and colorful cinematography in a swamp, Swamp Thing doesn't really have much to offer. For starters, it can't seem to make up it's mind what it wants to be. Is it a horror movie? A comedy? Satire, maybe? An action flick? Or maybe a romance? It's really a bit of all of them, but doesn't add up to much of anything. The acting is brutal, especially by ALL of the commandos, and the actors aren't helped by the cliché-laden script. What's most annoying are the transitional wipes used to transition to a new scene, many of which are used when there is no transition to a new scene. And to top it off, the final fight between the silly looking swamp thing and the equally silly looking Arcane is just…silly…but not in a funny way.

Jul 15, 2020

Craven does a good job mixing the horror and action. It's a lot of fun.

Jul 12, 2020

Not bad for 1982. A couple effects that garner an eye roll, but every generation has its limitations. Interesting how styles change generationally. After seeing modern superhero movies, a movie like this seems very slow and meditative. But not necessarily in a bad way. A few Frankenstein's Monster parallels. Jude is funny. Classic movie.

Jan 1, 2020

This low budget film version of the classic DC Comics series is too confused about what it wants to achieve to be genuinely good but it is fun to laugh at the clunky dialogue and silly rubber monster suits. The comic series written by the (sometimes great) Alan Moore (of Watchmen fame) is is far superior, with an intelligent and serious handling of the characters. This film version is, sadly, just silly.

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