The Thing (1982) [Part 1]

It's the dead of winter, and what better movie to, er, celebrate
the season with than Carpenter's snowbound sci-fi/horror
masterpiece, The Thing? Chris and Nick
have been eagerly anticipating the chance to discuss this film
(Nick's favorite entry in the Carpenter canon), and on this
episode, they tackle The Thing's origins,
its themes of paranoia and isolation, and -- of course -- the
incredible visual effects that can make even modern audiences
squirm. This week's episode focuses on the first half of the
film, where its bleak worldview, memorable cast of characters,
and endlessly shape-shifting creature are established, and, next
time around, we'll tackle the film's spectacular second half, the
effect its release had on Carpenter's career, and the
cult-classic status it took decades to develop. You knew we'd
have a lot to say about this one, so bundle up and join us --
and, yes, we promise it's really us!