Just a week ago, we posted an article about The Thing writer Eric Heisserer’s issues with the 2011 prequel, most of which boiled down to the decision to go from practical FX to CGI. Now the YouTube channel GoodBadFlicks has set its eyes on the ill-fated film and analyzes the issues that led to its serious box office underperformance.
What I love about the video is that it goes into the history of not only the prequel but builds up the video essay with information about the the original short story “Who Goes There?” and the first adaptation The Thing From Another World, as well as the PS2 video game sequel. From there it approaches the prequel in a rather level-headed fashion, offering information that is then used to create opinion.
As we’ve seen before, The Thing originally wanted to use practical FX, much of which looked absolutely incredible. However, the studio determined that CGI should be utilized and we ended up with a movie that looked unconvincing and, at times, flat out bad. It’s a shame because this video is seriously pushing me to revisit the film and try to watch it with a more open and aware frame of mind. Yes, it may look bad in some parts but others look very solid.
What are your thoughts? Will The Thing go on to become a classic just like John Carpenter’s adaptation did over the years or will it fade into obscurity, ignored and forgotten?
