44 Facts About The Movie The Thing

The Thing was released in 1982

The Thing is a science fiction horror film that was released in It was directed by John Carpenter and starred Kurt Russell in the lead role.

The movie is a remake of the 1951 film

The Thing is actually a remake of the 1951 film “The Thing from Another World”. While the original film was based on a short story called “Who Goes There?” by John W. Campbell Jr., the 1982 version stayed closer to the source material.

The movie was not a box office success

Despite being hailed as a cult classic today, The Thing did not perform well at the box office when it was first released. It only grossed around $19 million against a budget of $15 million.

The film’s special effects were groundbreaking

The Thing is known for its groundbreaking special effects, which were created by Rob Bottin. The practical effects, including animatronics and prosthetics, were highly detailed and realistic for their time.

The movie’s setting is in Antarctica

The Thing takes place at an American research station in Antarctica. The isolated and freezing setting adds to the sense of tension and claustrophobia throughout the film.

The cast had to undergo intense cold weather training

Before filming began, the cast members had to undergo intense cold weather training to prepare for the harsh conditions of shooting in an actual Antarctic winter.

The film has a sense of paranoia and mistrust

The Thing is known for its underlying theme of paranoia and mistrust. The characters in the film are constantly questioning each other’s motives and loyalty as they try to survive the threat of the shape-shifting alien.

The movie features a memorable blood test scene

One of the most memorable scenes in The Thing is the blood test scene. In this scene, the characters test each other’s blood to see if anyone has been assimilated by the alien.

The film’s score was composed by Ennio Morricone

The iconic score of The Thing was composed by legendary Italian composer Ennio Morricone. His haunting and atmospheric music adds to the suspense and horror of the film.

The movie was initially panned by critics

Upon its release, The Thing received mixed to negative reviews from critics. The intense violence and gruesome special effects were criticized, but the film has gained a cult following over the years.

The movie had a troubled production

The production of The Thing was plagued with numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, issues with the prosthetic effects, and tensions between the crew members. However, the difficulties ultimately contributed to the film’s gritty and authentic atmosphere.

The Thing has inspired video games and other media

The success of The Thing led to the creation of video games based on the film. It has also inspired other movies, books, and comics, further solidifying its status as a beloved cult classic.

The cast and crew had to work in extreme temperatures

During the filming of The Thing, the cast and crew had to endure freezing temperatures, which often dropped to -40 degrees Celsius. The extreme conditions added a sense of realism to the movie.

The film’s ending is open to interpretation

The ending of The Thing is intentionally ambiguous, leaving viewers to speculate on the fate of the remaining characters. This open-ended conclusion has sparked discussions and theories among fans.

The movie’s tagline is “Man is The Warmest Place to Hide”

The marketing tagline for The Thing is “Man is The Warmest Place to Hide,” reflecting the idea that the shape-shifting alien can hide among the human characters.

The film’s practical effects still hold up today

Even after almost 40 years, the practical effects in The Thing still hold up remarkably well. The grotesque and terrifying transformations of the alien remain impressive and horrifying.

The movie has gained a dedicated fan base

Despite not being a commercial success upon its release, The Thing has gained a dedicated fan base over the years. Its reputation as a groundbreaking horror film has only grown stronger with time.

The film’s original script had a different ending

The original script for The Thing had a different ending in which the alien escapes and makes its way to a larger city. However, this ending was not filmed due to budget constraints.

The movie explores themes of isolation and survival

The Thing delves into themes of isolation and survival as the characters are trapped in the Arctic wilderness with a deadly alien organism. It highlights the fragility of human existence in extreme conditions.

The film’s iconic poster remains popular today

The poster for The Thing, featuring a silhouetted figure against a stark white background, has become an iconic image in the horror genre. It continues to be a popular choice for merchandise and artwork.

The movie includes memorable quotes

The Thing is known for its memorable quotes, such as “Trust is a tough thing to come by these days” and “You’ve gotta be fuckin’ kidding.” These lines have become part of the film’s legacy.

The film was not a commercial success in its original release

Despite its cult following today, The Thing did not perform well at the box office when it was first released. It faced strong competition from other films at the time, leading to its underperformance.

The movie’s creature design is highly detailed

The creature design in The Thing is highly detailed and grotesque, showcasing the imagination and skill of the special effects team. The alien’s ability to mimic its host adds an element of surprise and suspense.

The film’s setting was recreated using miniatures

To capture the vast and desolate Arctic setting, the production team had to create intricate miniatures. These miniatures were used to shoot certain scenes and establish the atmosphere of the film.

The Thing has a loyal and passionate fan community

The Thing has a dedicated fan community who regularly organize screenings, discuss theories, and create fan art inspired by the film. The movie’s enduring popularity is a testament to its lasting impact.

The movie underwent extensive re-shoots

After initial test screenings, The Thing underwent extensive re-shoots to clarify certain plot points and enhance the suspense. These changes ultimately improved the movie and added to its tension.

The film has been labeled a masterpiece by some critics

While initial reviews were mixed, The Thing has since been hailed as a masterpiece by some critics. Its influence on the horror genre and its exploration of human paranoia have contributed to its critical acclaim.

The movie’s practical effects were used sparingly

Despite the film’s reputation for its practical effects, they were actually used sparingly in certain scenes. This strategic approach allowed the effects to have a greater impact when they were showcased.

The Thing was not a commercial success upon its release

Due to its poor performance at the box office, The Thing was considered a financial failure initially. However, it has since gained a dedicated following and is regarded as one of the best horror films of all time.

The film’s cast includes Kurt Russell and Wilford Brimley

The Thing features a talented cast, including Kurt Russell in the lead role of R.J. MacReady. Wilford Brimley also delivers a memorable performance as Dr. Blair.

The movie features intense and graphic violence

The Thing is known for its intense and graphic violence, making it one of the most gruesome horror films of its time. The practical effects used to depict the alien’s transformations are particularly disturbing.

The film’s suspense is heightened by its isolated setting

The isolation of the Arctic research station in The Thing adds to the film’s suspense and creates a sense of claustrophobia. The characters are trapped with a deadly alien creature, with no means of escape.

The Thing has influenced other horror films

The Thing has had a significant influence on the horror genre, inspiring other filmmakers to create their own works of intense paranoia and body horror. It remains a touchstone for filmmakers and fans alike.

The movie’s practical effects were achieved without CGI

In an era before the widespread use of CGI, The Thing relied solely on practical effects to bring its terrifying creature to life. This dedication to practical effects adds to the film’s realism and impact.

The film’s title refers to the unidentified shape-shifting alien

The title of The Thing refers to the unidentified creature that terrorizes the research station. Its ability to assume the form of its victims adds to the suspense and unpredictability of the film.

The movie’s cinematography enhances the sense of dread

The cinematography in The Thing plays a crucial role in creating a sense of dread and unease. The use of low lighting and wide shots adds to the atmosphere of isolation and impending danger.

The Thing is considered one of the best remakes in film history

The Thing is often cited as one of the best remakes in film history, surpassing the original in terms of its visual effects, character development, and overall tension. It has set a high standard for future remakes.

The movie’s practical effects team faced significant challenges

Creating the intricate practical effects for The Thing was a daunting task for the special effects team. The constant changes in the design of the alien and the tight shooting schedule added to the difficulties they faced.

The film’s characters are faced with an unimaginable threat

In The Thing, the characters are faced with an unimaginable threat: an alien life form that can assimilate and imitate any living organism. This adds an extra layer of tension and uncertainty to their fight for survival.

The movie’s atmospheric score enhances the suspense

The atmospheric score composed by Ennio Morricone adds to the suspense and terror of The Thing. The haunting melodies and dissonant soundscape create an unsettling atmosphere that lingers long after the film has ended.

The Thing has been praised for its practical effects and creature design

The practical effects and creature design in The Thing have been widely praised by fans and critics alike. The attention to detail and the grotesque transformations have become a benchmark for practical effects in horror films.

The movie’s script went through several revisions

The script for The Thing went through several revisions before the final version was approved. The filmmakers aimed to create a story that stayed true to the source material while adding their own unique twists and turns.

The Thing has been referenced in popular culture

The Thing has left a lasting impact on popular culture, with references and homages appearing in various forms of media. From other films and TV shows to video games and music, its influence can be felt across different art forms.

The movie has stood the test of time

Despite its initial reception, The Thing has stood the test of time and remains a beloved horror film. Its combination of visceral effects, psychological tension, and strong performances continues to captivate audiences to this day.

Conclusion

The Thing is a timeless horror movie that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. With its gripping storyline, innovative special effects, and unforgettable performances, it has become a cult classic in the genre. From the chilling atmosphere to the mind-bending twists, this film has stood the test of time and continues to captivate new generations of moviegoers. Whether you’re a fan of horror or just enjoy a good thriller, The Thing is a must-watch for any film enthusiast. So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare to be terrified by one of the greatest horror movies ever made.

FAQs

1. Who directed The Thing?

John Carpenter directed The Thing, showcasing his talent for creating intense and suspenseful horror films.

2. When was The Thing released?

The Thing was released in 1982 and has since gained a strong following over the years.

3. Is The Thing a remake?

Yes, The Thing is a remake of the 1951 film “The Thing from Another World.”

4. What is the storyline of The Thing?

The Thing follows a group of scientists in Antarctica who encounter a shape-shifting alien organism that wreaks havoc on their isolated outpost.

5. Who stars in The Thing?

The movie features Kurt Russell, Keith David, and Wilford Brimley among other talented actors.

6. What makes The Thing unique in the horror genre?

The Thing stands out for its groundbreaking special effects, practical creature designs, and the palpable sense of paranoia it creates.

7. Did The Thing receive critical acclaim?

While the film initially received mixed reviews, it has since gained recognition for its high-quality filmmaking and has become a cult favorite.

8. Is The Thing suitable for all audiences?

The Thing is rated R and contains graphic violence and horror elements, so it may not be suitable for younger or more sensitive viewers.

9. Are there any sequels or prequels to The Thing?

Yes, a prequel titled “The Thing” was released in 2011, serving as a companion piece to the original film.

10. Where was The Thing filmed?

The majority of the film was shot on location in British Columbia, Canada, to capture the desolate and icy landscapes.