This past month was the anniversary of 1982 cult classic “Swamp Thing” which was released on 4k by MVD as part of their “Classic Rewind” collection. This movie is often slept on especially by comic book fans as it is not as accurate or flashy as other superhero adaptations but despite my nostalgia level probably affecting my decision making I think this one holds up. Part horror, part tragic romance, part action movie, and depending on the version you watch part skin flick, this movie has everything. I grew up watching this movie when it would play regularly on the USA Network, my favorite channel when my parents weren’t home, okay maybe my second favorite…anyway I feel like this movie was on a lot in the 90’s and somehow I’d watch it every time.

I’m not even sure if at the time I realized Swamp Thing was a comic book character, to me he was just a really cool movie character introduced to me 100% through this film. Watching this on 4k with my son I wasn’t sure what to expect, the movie is rated PG and while I know the 80’s had a different set of standards for rating movies I honestly don’t think it was too intense or scary at all for a 6 year old. It might have made him a convert. The transfer looks great, with vibrant greens and browns of the bayou popping on screen.

Low budget movies don’t typically do well with 4k transfers because the effects aren’t meant to be seen with such clarity, here that’s not really a problem. The Swamp Thing suit is far from perfect however the design holds up and surprisingly doesn’t look fake in high def. It looks dated for sure that’s the nature of the beast, yet the suspension of disbelief remains the same probably bolstered by Dick Durock’s performance as the titular creature.

MVD puts out a great presentation with great special features so it’s easy to praise the output there. Most fans of the movie will be on board regardless, luckily this feels like a definitive release that should give you confidence that you’ll never have to double dip or trade up. Here are a the set’s features:

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 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)

MVD has put out a worthy version of a film that some might not consider important cult cinema. I would disagree since the movie, directed by a pre-Nightmare on Elm Street Wes Craven, is actually worth giving a chance based on its execution and performances. It might not have opened the doors for similar films but it is a cut-above some the lesser regarded comic book films of the era (eg: Howard the Duck, Superman IV, Captain America). If you’re a fan or are just curious this limited edition set is still available here.

Did you grow up with this movie? Do you prefer the campy sequel? Let me know in the comments below!