The Thing (1982) (Widescreen Collector's Edition)

That thing wanted to be US!

By Yahoo! Shopping User  Aug 9, 2006

Pros: The eerie soundtrack is a perfect complement to a truly frightening story. The cast is superb, led by Kurt Russell. It ranks among the best sci-fi horror films of all time.

Cons: Some of the puppetry may not excite the minds of younger audiences weaned on digital effects.

John Carpenter has crafted a film of such fear and unease that those prone to nightmares should not watch this movie alone. He and his cast and crew do in this film what the 1951 version featuring James Arness as the Thing could not, that is create a... believable reality that defies its fantastic premise. The acting is great, particularly Russell, who maintains his glibness throughout, in spite of the terror he confronts. While the presence of so many recognizable actors from television and film might put our minds at ease, Carpenter uses that familiarity to his advantage, as we begin to share the suspicion of the players. We endure the bleak landscape and the utter isolation with the characters. We feel their boredom and loneliness, and then we share in their dread. Carpenter's score contributes to that apprehension. He plays with our emotions and each note heightens our anxiety. The dramatic tension builds throughout the film, leading to the climatic battle between man and monster, but the viewer is left wondering whether the terror has really ended. The collector's edition commentary by Russell and Carpenter should not be missed. Read more Less