A Modern Sci Fi Classic

Rating: Null/10 (15 December 2004)

Taut,atmospheric and superbly crafted, this remake of the 50's classic is a great film in it's own right. Arguably John Carpenters best movie. The Thing is also an absolute bench mark for incredible creature effects by Rob Bottin. No CGI back in '82, which makes the Thing all the more impressive as it's withstood the test of time magnificently. The design and execution of the monster effects are hideous.mind boggling and darkly humorous. Carpenters typically creeping camera work (in beautiful anamorphic widescreen) sucks you in and tantalises you, as does Ennio Morricone's pulsing score.
Kurt Russell is charismatic as ever and the rest of the cast do terrific work.
Ironically when released in '82, The Thing tanked mightily, got critically crucified for gross out effects and it's gallows atmoshpere. But it's important to remember that this was the summer of E.T and audiences weren't in the mood for this horrific paranoia thriller. In 82 the Thing was seen as gratuitous. In reality 'The Thing' was way ahead of it's time.
Now it can be admired for the terrific movie it is, showing the kind of suspense and creativity which seems to have deserted most big budget sci-fi and horror films these days.
The Universal Collectors DVD is the only way to discover this woefully under-appreciated movie. So grab some popcorn, turn down the lights, crank up the sub woofer, you wont be disappointed