SWAMP THING 1989 #2 (DC COMICS)
The historic return continues for Swamp Thing!
Since 1988, fans have been waiting to see how the legendary run would properly end. After its’ triumphant return in April of 2026, The defender of the Green continues its’ time-traveling escapades.
From the crucifixion of Jesus, the story now moves into its’ intended destination. John Constantine might be the key to saving Swamp Thing but there’s always a cost. One way to find out.
SWAMP THING 1989 #2 by Rick Veitch, Tom Mandrake ,Trish Mulvihill, & Todd Klein (DC COMICS) continues its’ proper send off of the classic series from the 1980’s.
Let’s take a deeper dive into what unfolds here.
SWAMP THING 1989 #2 by Rick Veitch, Tom Mandrake ,Trish Mulvihill, & Todd Klein (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Veitch opens with a more superhero approach as Chronos plays his games with Swamp Thing. The writing is very traditional in delivery. Villain monologues are always a welcomed break in the swirling drama. Seeing Swamp Thing fade further away leads into a more mature route. John Constantine’s entrance to the story is in a bold and unapologetic manner. There are extreme themes at play not meant for younger readers. The writing locks in on his arrogance and debauchery as another guest star exits the scene. One must keep in mind the era this series was written in to get the full picture of events.
This leads into a more formal look at Constantine’s world. His conversation with the Shinning Knight is gruff to start, but unlocks the true nature of events. Professor Hyatt’s imprisonment by Chronos leads into a heroic save from Swamp Thing. It also moves his story along to explaining greater details of what’s occurred. It is a very layered story that takes many turns. The writing shows the wear and tear it takes on Swamp Thing. The end result releases the impossible in the air. It ushers in other side plots while leaving a very strong tease of more impending trouble on the horizon. For anyone well versed in their DC lore, there’s much to be excited for here.
read last issue’s review!
Mandrake and Mulvihill open with a very clean look at Chronos taking his victory lap. It is a far cry of what follows. Constantine’s beginning panels are filled with the extremes of his character. A half page panel shows the kinks and devious methods he lives. It results in an abrupt finish to his time. Another DCU character gets a subtle panel exit before John goes to work. Before this, a solid two page panel ushers in Abby’s impending child birth. This moment delays Hellblazer for a quick moment. Once he enters the true frame, the story speeds into its main point.
Shinning Knight’s recall of events throws readers in for a detailed ride. The time travel covers many aspects of history. Each show how Swamp Thing adapts. This comes into detailed focus as the prehistoric era kicks in. Readers watch as Anthro talks with his old friend about their current journey. This launches Swamp Thing into his true destination. Panels fill with Mulvihill’s coloring as the shocking final destination is revealed. The reveal snaps events beck to the current time with much contemplating on Constantine’s face. This moves to a dramatic final act and disturbing closing page. There’s no easy way out form here.
FINAL GRADE: 8.5
Swamp Thing’s trek through time is fully unveiled with Constantine along for the insanity. Veitch leans heavily into the mature aspects of the story. The art doesn’t shy away from the extreme details at hand. Fans can fully expect a big payoff for the story almost 40 years in the making.
Let me know your thoughts on SWAMP THING 1989 #2 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
