The first chapter of James Gunn’s DCU slate is titled “Gods and Monsters”. One character who arguably is described by both words is Swamp Thing. Just a day after learning that a Swamp Thing film is on the way, Gunn appears to have already found the director to bring the nature elemental’s story to life.
While THR has the official word on Mangold being in talks to write and direct Swamp Thing, it was the filmmaker himself who had already teased it on social media early in the morning…
— Mangold (@mang0ld) February 1, 2023
So this does appear to be happening. And honestly, Gunn couldn’t have found a better filmmaker. Mangold is one of the most accomplished directors around. He’s currently working on Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, shouldering the burden of wrapping up Harrison Ford’s run as the character. But Mangold has key superhero movie experience, having previously directed Logan, considered one of the best comic book movies ever made. He also directed other great films such as Ford v Ferrari and 3:10 to Yuma, Walk the Line, and The Wolverine.
As for when Swamp Thing might arrive, it probably won’t be for a few years. Superman: Legacy kicks off the new DCU in July 2025, so it’ll have to be some time after that. Perhaps 2026?