This movie, billed as a prelude to the John Carpenter original telling the story of the Norwegian camp seen at the beginning of that film, was bound to struggle from the start. Although technically it's a prequel, it feels much more like a remake of the Carpenter movie, albeit with a few twists here and there to differentiate it. As most movie fans will tell you, the Carpenter movie is an outstanding piece of filmmaking, and I don't think anybody can ever hope to equal it. 2011's THE THING doesn't even come close.
Saying that, this film is not without merit. As a stand-alone film, it's actually pretty decent: well paced and fairly disturbing in places. It goes without saying that it would be a lot better if the original movie didn't exist; I'm sure some would be hailing it as a modern day classic. Those familiar with the Carpenter movie will be under no illusions about just how derivative this is.
Still, THE THING utilises some excellent CGI effects work (for the most part) that brings the body-horror storyline to vivid life; a crucial set-piece that takes place towards the climax is grim, gruesome and chilling in equal measure. However, it's perhaps a little bit too explicit and fast-paced; there are monster encounters galore and constant action, whereas a more subtle approach layered with tension and paranoia would have been more effective.
The cast don't get much of a look in, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead displays the same level of blandness as I've seen from her other movies; you just can't remember her face once the film finishes. Also, things get a little too science-fictiony at the climax, which goes all out and loses some believability as a result. Had they remained more restrained, the end result would have been much more realistic - and frightening.
Saying that, this film is not without merit. As a stand-alone film, it's actually pretty decent: well paced and fairly disturbing in places. It goes without saying that it would be a lot better if the original movie didn't exist; I'm sure some would be hailing it as a modern day classic. Those familiar with the Carpenter movie will be under no illusions about just how derivative this is.
Still, THE THING utilises some excellent CGI effects work (for the most part) that brings the body-horror storyline to vivid life; a crucial set-piece that takes place towards the climax is grim, gruesome and chilling in equal measure. However, it's perhaps a little bit too explicit and fast-paced; there are monster encounters galore and constant action, whereas a more subtle approach layered with tension and paranoia would have been more effective.
The cast don't get much of a look in, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead displays the same level of blandness as I've seen from her other movies; you just can't remember her face once the film finishes. Also, things get a little too science-fictiony at the climax, which goes all out and loses some believability as a result. Had they remained more restrained, the end result would have been much more realistic - and frightening.