Review of Swamp Thing (1982) by Bryan G — 02 Oct 2005

[font=Courier New][i]Swamp Thing[/i] isn?t one of those movies that is going to blow you away. And considering the fact that it is written and directed by Wes Craven, it isn?t going to make you squeamish like you might be thinking. But somewhere deep inside this dud of a film, is a guilty pleasure.

Deep in a remote swampy area, a tiny little laboratory has created some sort of chemical that explodes when thrown on things, and has the power to grow plants on whatever that surface is. But a selfish competitor tries to steal the formula and nearly kills Alec Holland (Ray Wise), the scientist who created the formula.

But he doesn?t die. Once his body comes in contact with his formula, he is transformed into a plant covered man. And he seeks vengeance on those responsible for this, as well as protecting his girlfriend Alice Cable (Adrienne Barbeau).

The make-up in this movie isn?t that great, and hasn?t aged well. And the story seemed like it could have used a lot of work. But with all the explosions, gun fights, boat chases and a sword fight in the end, this film is a interesting film to watch.

It isn?t great, but for some reason you get glued to the screen watching it. It doesn?t offer anything new, but it feels like watching one of those old 1950?s sci-fi films. I?m a huge fan of B-grade movies, and see this as one of the best I?ve seen.

You can get the DVD pretty cheap. It is bare bones, which is kind of sad. Even Craven?s [i]Last House on the Left[/i] had commentary, but why not this? Oh well, it?s still at least a viewing if you haven?t seen it before. Might be a nice change from all the lame excuses for superhero movies out today. [/font].