Today’s quick review: The Thing. An Antarctic research base becomes the site of a deadly conflict when a shapeshifting, flesh-eating alien sneaks inside. Capable of devouring and imitating any lifeform, the alien begins to pick off the inhabitants of the research base and replace them one by one. It’s up to MacReady (Kurt Russell) to organize the men, root out the imposters in their midst, and keep the alien from getting back to civilization.
The Thing is a science fiction horror movie from director John Carpenter. The movie pits an Antarctic research team against an otherworldly shapeshifter that can kill with a touch and pose as anyone. A compelling premise, believable characters, and an unpredictable plot make The Thing an effective horror story with everything it needs and nothing more. However, its tense atmosphere and disturbing visuals mean that it’s not for the faint of heart.
The Thing is best known for its incredible practical effects. The design of the alien sits at a sweet spot: grotesque, memorable, and capable of being anywhere at any time. The special effects hold up remarkably well, rivaling even the best modern CGI, while the shapeshifting monster means that the film never has to repeat a trick. The result is a horror movie where each scare is worth the wait just to see the next, twisted incarnation of the Thing.
The Thing’s special effects are backed by a chilling sci-fi premise and the steady direction of John Carpenter. The movie does an excellent job of establishing its atmosphere and hooking the viewer’s interest. The pacing of the movie is deliberately unsteady, with slow patches that erupt into bursts of horror and violence. The Thing also lets its characters play off each other naturally, leading to smarter decisions and a more meaningful plot.
How much you get out of The Thing will depend heavily on your taste in genres. Fans of horror and the darker side of science fiction will want to give it a shot. Its iconic monster and steady execution make it a classic of the genre, and the scares are just restrained enough to make it accessible to those who only dabble in horror. Sensitive viewers and science fiction fans who prefer action over atmosphere will want to give it a miss.
For a darkly surreal sci-fi movie with similarly vivid visuals, try Annihilation. For another strong thriller, try A Quiet Place. For dark sci-fi with deadly creatures and more action, try Prometheus. For a more proactive, action-oriented take on a similar premise, try Predator.
8.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 for superb special effects and a tense, well-judged story; your score will vary depending on your taste in horror.