Review of The Thing (1982) by Russell G — 25 Oct 2014

Normally in a horror movie, whatever generates the fear is typically more frightening when we do not see it. In most cases when a monster, ghost, alien, or demon is unveiled, it is a disappointment. No matter how good the movie magic is, it just never seems as intimidating.

Typically developing quality characters is as important in a scary movie any other genre, because it makes the viewer invested. The Thing is a rare exception to these things, but still results in an excellent movie.

That is not to say it does not have suspense or a well-crafted build up, but it does not shy away from showing the element of horror. It hides very little, as it shows the source of horror in gruesome bloody detail.

Gross out gory horror, like this, is usually one-note and used as a cheap punchline, where it is the only method to induce fear. In this case, there is certainly gore and harsh imagery, but it has a purpose because it intensifies the emotion of a mysterious and suspenseful situation.

It helps that special effects are very good, especially considering there were no computer graphics to lean on. During attack scenes, the visuals are extremely scary and deliver the desired impact rather than cheapen it.

Another powerful tool to construct the mood is the claustrophobic research station setting located in an isolated and desolate arctic area. The research team characters are very simple, but that is fine.

We learn what need to in order to have an emotional impact and nothing more. Even after the crisis takes shape the tension and uncertainly prevails. Questions arise as to who is trustworthy, who is simply hysterical and who is a true threat.

John Carpenter directs a masterpiece with this one. He forms a suspenseful start up and establishes an intentionally hazy but important background. It does not take long for it to ramp into high gear and does not let up much from there.

Carpenter knows how to generate fear and emotion in the moment even without specifically refined characters. It is about the human condition of panic and distrust in an extreme survivalist situation. It breaks many of the rules of what makes a great horror movie, but does so with skill and purpose and is one of the greatest thriller-horror movies ever.