DVD Corner

Swamp People Season 5 DVD Review

How much alligator hunting can a person watch?

In the 21 episode fifth season of History Channel’s reality series “Swamp People,” Troy, R.J., Paul, Liz, Bruce, Ron, Junior, Willie, Jeromy, David, Glenn, Terral, Johnny, Roger, Holden, Bigfoot, Guy, T-Roy, Justin, Tyler the dog, and others hunt alligators during the 30 day hunting season in different areas such as Honey Island, Bayou Sorrel, Hog Island, Pecan Island, and Pierre Part. Throughout the season, viewers can expect plenty of dead alligators, family drama, gator peril, revenge against gators, poachers, injuries, rogue gators, boat problems, bickering, cannibal gators, newbie hunters, a snapper turtle, and loads of tag talk. Note: The 21^st episode is a clip show.

As I watched “Swamp People,” I started to wonder why this show has become such a hit. Sure, it’s supremely well edited and fast paced, but once you’ve seen one episode, you feel like you’ve had your fill of watching gator hunting for the rest of your life. Are people simply attracted to dangerous job shows? Are folks intrigued by hunters and the Cajun culture? The answer isn’t clear, but the show has clearly captured people’s attention.

As many fans as the show has, there are many detractors out there as well. While the people in the show may be trying to earn a living, there’s little doubt that there is a fair amount of unsettling animal cruelty on display. I understand the population control claims, but that did not apply to all situations here. Most of the time, people are merely trying to earn a quick buck. To say the show’s content does not sit well at times is an understatement.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.78:1. How does it look? Say what you will about the show, but it is very well shot. You feel like you’re right there in the murky swamp.

Audio Track: Dolby Digital 2.0. How does it sound? From the narration to the mumblings, this is a clear track.

The only extras include Lionsgate trailers and 10 bonus scenes.

March 19, 2015 - Posted by nicklyons1 | DVD review | Swamp People Season 5 DVD Review