Sure, DC Comics might be years behind Marvel in a couple categories right now, like building a cohesive world that feels lived in, setting up overarching plot lines, introducing key members of their superhero teams (Green Lantern, Green Arrow, Dr. Fate, Martian Manhunter, etc.) telling origin stories, making successful blockbuster team up films, making successful blockbuster solo films, money and quality, but they are the undisputed first at making streaming services. Nothing quite like this has been done by a comic brand, so DC can kick their feet up on a collective desk and say, "This might work, and it might not, but we were by God first."
Proud of you, DC.
Announced last week, DC comics are setting up their own live streaming network called DC Universe, or as DC calls it, "The ultimate DC membership". Here's the official blurb:
"DC Universe is a first-of-its kind, immersive digital experience designed just for DC fans."
It goes on to say, "One of the many incredible things your membership will include is unlimited access to the following exclusive original series," which then lists some new series that will be featured on the (presumably called) DCU. Here's where things get a bit exciting; the new series listed on the page are: Titans, Young Justice: Outsiders, Harley Quinn and Swamp Thing. The Titans will be yet another team up teen show, albeit one run by Dick Grayson, otherwise known as Nightwing (in the future), otherwise known as Robin, otherwise known as Batman's sidekick. There will be some interesting character development there, as Dick tries to figure out how to lead while struggling to get our from under the cape of Batman and be his own hero. Young Justice: Outsiders appears to be an animated followup to the Justice League cartoon network show, and Harley Quinn will be another animated affair, following the adventures of Joker's leading lady. For me though, Swap Thing is where things get interesting.
Swamp Thing has a few origin retcons, but the most popular version of the character surrounds Alec Holland, a scientist working in the Louisiana swamps on a secret bio-restorative formula "that can make forests out of deserts". Holland is killed by a bomb planted by agents of Mr. E (Nathan Ellery), who wants the formula for himself. Alec is sprayed with burning chemicals and dives into a nearby swamp, where he becomes the Swamp Thing. Alan Moore later changed this up a bit by having Swamp Thing become and elemental avatar of the parliament of the trees. Think about Captain Planet being the embodiment of the earth, and you're on the right track.
I love Swamp Thing, so I am pumped, albeit with a few reservations. As much as I'd love to see a Jim Henson style Swamp Thing, they are most likely going to be using CGI, which is a heavy cross to bear, budget wise; Swamp Thing is always Swamp Thing, unlike the Hulk, who turns from Banner into the monster when needed. Is the CGI going to be good enough to sustain this thing, or will it fall victim to similar shows that must limit the CGI character to save money? The second big question will be which version they pull their inspiration from, the Alan Moore era or the recent horrifying Scott Snyder run, or any of the other runs in Swamp Thing's 50 some odd year history.
What do you think about this service in general? Is this necessary? Which of these four shows are you most excited about (if any)? Let me know in the comments.
