TV Review: Swamp Thing - Go Green...Or Else

Swamp Thing is another character I've only really encountered in a widespread compacity, like when he appears as part of a crossover in comics, animation or video games. The best way to think of Swamp Thing is like a scarier version of Captain Planet, as he draws his power from the environment while also fighting to protect it. While the character has had solo adaptations outside of comics, it has been a few decades so he might not be as relevant nowadays. So much like Doom Patrol, Swamp Thing was prime material for the DC Universe streaming service, and focusing on the character's horror roots (no pun intended) would give it its own unique feel. "Swamp Thing" is another hit for DC Universe, but unfortunately is a short-lived one.

As mentioned, the series leans very heavily on the horror aspects of the character and his world. It's really the main highlight to me, as there's a great mix of practical and computer generated effects. There's a lot to fill viewers with fright, from jump scares, ghosts and hallucinations, and body horror (including transformation and mutilation). There's also one specific moment in episode four that made me very nauseous. Even if you don't read comics, true horror fans would get a real kick out of this series.

The cast of characters is rich and have a lot in terms of complexity. Many characters come off as likable people but also have a dark side. Honestly, the only main character that comes off as "obviously evil" from the get-go is Avery Sunderland (played by Will Patton). I also enjoy that there are a number of significant DC characters involved as well, including Phantom Stranger, Madame Xanadu, and Blue Devil.
When it comes to our titular character, Andy Bean and Derek Mears shine as both Alec Holland and Swamp Thing.
As Holland, Bean is able to deliver a significant performance, allowing his human form to be memorable and for viewers to become invested in him before the events that lead to the creation of his monstrous alter ego.
Derek Mears is mostly known for his stunt work, including playing Jason Vorhees in the 2009 "Friday the 13th" film, but he is probably the most surprising actor of the series as Swamp Thing. The Swamp Thing suit is heavily detailed and makes for one of the most comic accurate looks to come from the genre. The facial make-up is the best part as it allowed for Mears to speak and we can see his expressions coming through. Swamp Thing the character is a marvel to witness as we watch him grow, coming to terms with his existence, his powers, and his purpose. Coupling that with the delivery in Mears' voice also allows us to ride the emotional roller coaster he goes on. The relationship between him and Abby Arcane (played by Crystal Reed) is great to watch and I found it akin to "The Shape of Water" (though it doesn't go THAT far). Overall, Mears as Swamp Thing is probably the best comic book character performance I've seen since Josh Brolin as Thanos.
Another character that really stood out to me was Kevin Durand as Jason Woodrue. Woodrue was one of the few characters I was familiar with going into this series due to his villainous alter ego, so he was one character I was sure to keep my eye on. I haven't seen a lot of Kevin Durand's work, but what I have seen shows him in more brutish roles, so seeing him as more of scientist was as much as a surprise to me as Mears as Swamp Thing. He's an eccentric character with very noble intentions, though his drive to reach his goals eventually results in a psychotic break. He's just a character that's enjoyable to watch from beginning to end, and his fall from grace is somewhat heartbreaking, even if you're able to see it coming.

"Swamp Thing" was highly entertaining and another unique addition to DC's live action library. Sadly though, we must bid farewell as soon after greetings, as "Swamp Thing" was cancelled shortly after its first episode despite its acclaim. While a straight answer hasn't been given, the cancellation was most likely due to budgetary issues. It's a real shame because I saw a lot more potential to be had based on the final episode. Still, I can't help but think of another horror-based DC character whose solo series was unjustly cancelled. If Constantine can find new life within the Arrowverse, there could be hope for Swamp Thing in one way or another. Only time will tell.