In a recent interview, Kurt Russell provided some insight into the true meaning of the iconic 1982 horror movie, The Thing, directed by John Carpenter. Russell mentioned that Carpenter never considered the film to be a horror movie, despite its widespread and enduring reputation as one of the greatest in the genre. Russell recalled how Carpenter set him straight about the real essence of The Thing when he was approached to play the lead role of MacReady. According to Russell, Carpenter clarified that the movie was about the characters’ inability to trust one another and the paranoia that ensues.
The movie’s ending has also been a topic of discussion, with Russell revealing that there were many alternatives considered before settling on the final scene. Carpenter was reportedly not satisfied with concluding the film by bringing the audience back to square one, but eventually, both he and Russell agreed that this was the only fitting way to end the story. The ambiguity of the ending, with the characters’ uncertainty about their own reality, is what Russell believes makes The Thing truly great.
Fans have long awaited news of a potential sequel to The Thing, with speculations from various sources hinting at such a possibility. While talk of a sequel possibly being in the works has circulated, no concrete updates have emerged. Blumhouse Productions has been linked to the project, and while Carpenter hinted at progress being made, no official announcements have been made. Given the recent trend of legacy sequels in the film industry, there is speculation about the return of original cast members alongside new characters in a potential sequel. However, with no substantial updates in over a year, it appears that a follow-up to The Thing is not an immediate priority.
