“The Thing” has become an enduring classic despite opening to negative reviews and lower than anticipated box office in 1982. In the decades since its release, it has continued to be seen as a genre-redefining and groundbreaking release that continues to cause debate amongst fans and has inspired numerous other projects.
The new documentary The Thing: Expanded by Director Ian Nathan is a five-hour masterclass of all aspects of the film. Featuring talents from the cast, crew, and acclaimed directors, industry professionals, and more, this is the most in-depth examination of the film to date.
From the story that inspired the 1950s version of the film to the early stages of planning, casting, and bringing the film to the screen, audiences are given access to the full creative process, including original casting choices and more.
Filming challenges, including issues with downtime while filming segments in remote areas of Canada, are discussed with the cast, as are details such as issues with the color paint used on the walls, and pacing concepts are explored. There is a considerable amount of time given to breaking down the various scenes in the film and exploring the effects and controversial amount of gore that was used, as well as how certain lines were improvised, which have since become classics.
The film looks at the 2011 Prequel as well as the unrealized SYFY sequel series and even discusses a proposed alternate ending that was presented after the studio pushed back about the ambiguous ending for the movie.
The ending of the film is discussed as well as the multiple theories fans have proposed over the years. Director John Carpenter states that he knows what the true answers are, but refuses to reveal them as he believes that doing so will undermine the legacy of the film.
If you are a fan of “The Thing” and want a complete and in-depth look at all aspects of the film from those who made it and were inspired by it, then you do not want to miss The Thing: Expanded.
