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Exploring the Legacy of John Carpenter’s “The Thing”
It has been 42 years since John Carpenter released what would ultimately be regarded as one of the finest horror and science fiction films ever crafted. Surprisingly, at its debut, the film was a commercial failure. We are, of course, referring to “The Thing”, a thrilling feature lifted from John W. Campbell Jr.’s 1938 novella, Who Goes There? The story follows a group of scientists at an Antarctic research station who begin to encounter terrifying phenomena when they discover a creature buried beneath the ice for over 100,000 years.
From Box Office Flop to Cult Classic
Initially released to harsh reviews and disappointing box office numbers, The Thing has since ascended to cult classic status. Its growing recognition over the decades is a testament to Carpenter’s exceptional talent and vision. Today, it stands not only as an influential piece within the genre but also as one of the most iconic films in Carpenter’s oeuvre. The film’s lasting impact is undeniable, firmly securing its place in popular culture.
The 2011 Prequel: “The Thing” Reimagined
Fast forward to 2011, a full 29 years following the original’s release, and we see the arrival of a new chapter in this chilling saga. The film The Thing served not as a remake but rather as a prequel, depicting the events that transpired before the horrifying encounters in the Antarctic station became notorious. Directed by Matthijs Van Heijningen, this reimagined interpretation garnered considerable acclaim on its release.
A Night of Terror on Paramount
Tonight, you can enjoy this gripping tale when the 2011 version of “The Thing” airs on the Paramount Channel at 10 PM. The storyline kicks off with a Norwegian research team that stumbles upon an alien spacecraft during one of its Antarctic expeditions. Within the wreckage, they discover a seemingly lifeless entity that piques the interest of paleontologist Kate Lloyd, played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and her team. Alongside her colleagues, Davida Morris and Adam Goodman, they resolve to unearth the full potential of this extraterrestrial life form.
However, as they conduct a fateful experiment, the creature escapes its icy prison, initiating a series of horrifying events that lead to tragic casualties. As Kate, her team, and helicopter pilot Sam Carter—played by Joel Edgerton—fight to survive, they must also contend with the creature’s terrifying ability to mimic any life form it encounters. Tensions heighten as trust erodes among the group; can they rely on each other when the stakes are so high?
Critics, like Quim Casas, noted in a four-star review for 123moviesful that the film transcends mere homage or connection to Carpenter’s original. He elaborated that while the initial portion of the 2011 version may feel uncertain, its latter half is amongst the finest in modern blockbuster horror. It’s said that Carpenter even participated in filming some scenes and contributed to the final cut, undoubtedly ensuring that Van Heijningen’s film does justice to the legacy of both the master director and the horror genre he has championed.
