EXCELLENT, CARPENTER'S BEST

Rating: 8/10 (12 May 2002)

This is supposedly a remake of the 40's classic which feature James Arness as a huge alien vegetable terrorizing an Arctic expedition. Actually it turns out to be a much more faithful rendering of James Campbell's science fiction novella from the 30s without the happy ending. Kurt Russell and crew are part of Antarctic expedition which come across the wreck of an alien craft. That part follows the original movie but the monster is not a vegetable but a "shape changing" creature who can invade the body of Russell or any of the men. The language is awfully strong so parental guidance should be used but this is an very frightening and suspenseful film that doesn't need or get Carpenter's usual gore. Well worth the watch and a must for fans of the genre. Get the video and do NOT watch this with commercial interruption.