Horror fans rejoice! John Carpenter's legendary 1982 sci-fi horror film The Thing has officially landed on ITVX, bringing its terrifying Antarctic isolation story to a new generation of viewers.
The cult classic, starring Kurt Russell as helicopter pilot R.J. MacReady, follows a US Antarctic research team's terrifying encounter with a shape-shifting alien lifeform. Praised for its groundbreaking practical effects by Rob Bottin and its haunting score by Ennio Morricone, the film has grown in stature since its initial release to become regarded as one of the greatest horror films ever made.
A Masterpiece of Paranoia and Practical Effects
What makes The Thing particularly special is its masterful building of tension and paranoia. As the alien assumes the form of various team members, no one can be trusted, leading to some of cinema's most memorable and gruesome transformation sequences.
While initially receiving mixed reviews upon release, the film has since been reappraised as a masterpiece of the genre. Its influence can be seen in countless subsequent horror and sci-fi productions.
Perfect Halloween Viewing
With Halloween approaching, The Thing makes for perfect seasonal viewing. The film's themes of isolation and distrust feel particularly relevant in today's world, while its practical effects still hold up remarkably well over 40 years later.
ITVX subscribers can now stream the film in high quality, making this an excellent opportunity for longtime fans to revisit the classic or for newcomers to experience it for the first time.
