I watched The Thing (2011) and I didn’t like it. 2/5
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The Thing is a 2011 prequel to the 1982 film of the same name, directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. The film aims to serve as a companion piece to John Carpenter’s iconic horror classic, exploring the events leading up to the fateful discovery at the Antarctic research station. While it tries to capture the suspense and horror of its predecessor, The Thing falls short in several key areas, resulting in a disappointing and forgettable experience.
One of the main issues with the film is its reliance on CGI effects over practical effects. While the original 1982 film made great use of practical effects, which added to the sense of realism and visceral terror, the 2011 version leans heavily on computer-generated imagery. As a result, the creature effects lack the same impact and believability, appearing more like video game graphics than organic and terrifying beings. The overreliance on CGI detracts from the immersion and fails to create the same level of suspense and dread that made the original so effective.
Another major downfall of The Thing is its weak character development. The film introduces us to a group of scientists and researchers, but they are underdeveloped and lack depth. There is a distinct lack of chemistry and camaraderie among the characters, making it difficult to invest in their survival or feel any emotional connection to their plight. The dialogue and interactions feel wooden and generic, failing to create memorable or relatable characters.
The pacing of the film is also a significant issue. The first half of the movie drags on, spending an excessive amount of time on exposition and setup without building much tension or intrigue. The audience is subjected to long periods of repetitive and uneventful scenes, with the suspenseful moments being few and far between. It’s only in the second half that the film starts to gain some momentum, but by then, it’s too little, too late.
Furthermore, the plot of The Thing feels derivative and lacking in originality. Rather than offering fresh insights or expanding upon the mythology of the creature, the film mostly retraces the steps of the 1982 version. It fails to add anything substantial to the story, relying heavily on familiar plot beats and predictable twists. As a result, it feels like a pale imitation rather than a worthy prequel.
Despite its flaws, The Thing does have a few redeeming qualities. The film does a decent job of capturing the desolate and isolated atmosphere of the Antarctic setting, effectively conveying a sense of paranoia and claustrophobia. The cinematography is visually pleasing, capturing the icy landscapes and the chilling ambiance of the research station. Additionally, the performances by the cast, including Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Joel Edgerton, are commendable, even if they are let down by the weak character development.
In conclusion, The Thing (2011) is a disappointing attempt to recapture the horror and suspense of the original film. The overreliance on CGI effects, weak character development, and derivative plot prevent it from living up to its potential. While it has a few visually striking moments and solid performances, they are not enough to salvage the overall lackluster experience. As a result, The Thing receives a modest 2/5 rating.