Swamp Thing: Futures End #1 Review

Written by: Charles Soule
Art by: Jesus Saiz
Cover Price: $3.99
Release Date: September 3, 2014

Avatar of Everything

I have complained enough already about the necessity of most of the early Futures End tie-ins.  I'm not alone in criticizing DC for putting their books on hold for a month to force feed them into an event that, so far, is pretty underwhelming.  Swamp Thing: Futures End is yet another book that doesn't push the overall event story an inch forward, but surprise!  It is awesome.  Charles Soule and Jesus Saiz use the five years in the future premise not to tell the story of  OMACS and Brother Eye, but instead to tell a fairy tale of a Green Knight trying to save his Princess.

If I had my druthers, Charles Soule would be writing Swamp Thing forever.  Sadly, that won't be the case.  At least we have issue like this to go back to years form now to remember the great times.  This issue transcends the Futures End event by tying in everything that Soule has given fans since taking over the book.  I really don't want to spoil anything so trust me,  if you like Swamp Thing, Charles Soule or just good old fashioned story telling, you'll like this issue.  Unfortunately, a minor knowledge of the Swamp Thing mythos is important so I suggest reading this whole series (at least the Snyder and Soule New 52 issues) before reading this.  You will love it, I guarantee it.



This issue is a story of retribution, revenge, loyalty, deceit and more things that I'm too dumb to know.  I do know that it had me enthralled from the first page as Soule unraveled the mystery of what Alec Holland is up to five years in the future.  In the end, it's not fame or fortune he seeks, but love and peace.  Bravo.

The timeless story and amazing guest stars make this issue great, but so does Jesus Saiz's art.  He does such a great job distinguishing between the different realms and the main villain looks stunning.  I have enjoyed Saiz throughout the series, but this may be his best work yet.

Bits and Pieces:

Swamp Thing: Futures End #1 really has nothing to do with the main Futures End story and in this case, I'm glad.  Charles Soule gives the readers a great story of what the Avatar of the Green can accomplish with five years of wanting and planning.  Jesus Saiz's art is the best he's done and the combination of everything makes a must read issue for fans.

9.5/10