The Thing (1982)
1982
R
109 Minutes
Horror | Science Fiction | Mystery | Thriller
Scientists in the Antarctic are confronted by a shape-shifting alien that assumes the appearance of the people that it kills.
User Review
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The Thing hosts the best use of practical effects I've ever seen. I knew I was in for a good time due to the massive cult following, but damn I was not expecting to enjoy it as much as I did. Having watched the sequel/prequel first, I was aware of the story and concept. A remote research facility in Antarctica is invaded by an otherworldly organism that is able to imitate other cells. Not everyone is human, so the remaining workers must figure out who to trust. That is where the horror and thrills arise. Push aside the gruesome, terrifying, hideous looking aliens that are constructed to precision for now. It's the isolation that sends chills down the spine. An enormous sense of claustrophobia where trust issues are the major concern. The characters are well established, well developed and well acted enough to, finally, create an involving story. Seriously, the plot is so welcoming that it invites you to figure out who might be "The Thing". Tense, gritty, dark...just how I like my horrors. Now we can throw in the inventive practical effects to enhance the film onto a-whole-nother level. Wow. It was so disgustingly delicious that I had to rewind back, hold up my phone on snapchat, and record those scenes so that all my friends can appreciate what I went through. Even the cries that "The Thing" yelps is nightmare inducing. John Carpenter's direction was slow, but it worked! He took his time to bring life to the characters and to create the chilling tension. I found the scene transitions slightly basic and jarring, simply fading to black. Also the ending was a tad underwhelming, was hoping for a final minute twist or something. But these are small nitpicks. The Thing has stood the test of time and is still engaging as it was when it was initially released. I've finally watched it, and suggest you all do the same as well. I won't look at huskies the same way now...1 member likes this review.
