Let's delve into the fascinating world of film criticism and explore a classic case of a critic's opinion evolving over time. The focus of our discussion is Roger Ebert, a renowned film critic, and his take on a particular '80s sci-fi horror masterpiece, “The Thing.”
In the realm of cinema, it's not uncommon for critics to have differing opinions, and sometimes, even the most esteemed critics can get it wrong. Roger Ebert, with his sharp insights and critical eye, was no exception. While he is celebrated for his insightful reviews, there were instances where his initial assessments didn't quite align with the film's eventual acclaim.
The Misstep with “The Thing”
One such instance was his review of John Carpenter's “The Thing,” an adaptation of John W. Campbell's novella “Who Goes There?” Ebert's critique of the film was rather scathing, describing it as a “great barf-bag movie.” He took issue with the superficial characterizations and the behavior of the scientists in the Antarctic research outpost, which he found implausible.
What makes this particularly fascinating is that Ebert, known for his perceptiveness, seemed to miss the deeper themes and psychological undertones of the film. “The Thing” is not just a horror movie; it's a study of paranoia and the dark corners of the human psyche. The characters' irrational decisions and their inability to form a “watertight buddy system” are not flaws, but rather, they serve as a reflection of the very human tendency to make mistakes, especially under extreme circumstances.
A Critic's Evolution
Interestingly, Ebert's opinion on sci-fi films often evolved over time. He initially panned “Godzilla” and “Blade Runner,” but later awarded them perfect scores. However, with “The Thing,” he never seemed to change his mind. In his review, he criticized Carpenter for prioritizing special effects over character development and story, a sentiment he echoed in his “Siskel & Ebert” segment.
Personally, I think Ebert's criticism of “The Thing” is a prime example of how a critic's personal preferences can influence their judgment. Ebert seemed to prefer character-driven narratives, and “The Thing”, with its focus on cosmic horror and special effects, didn't align with his taste. It's a reminder that even the most respected critics can have blind spots.
The Impact of Context
One cannot ignore the context in which “The Thing” was released. It faced stiff competition at the box office from “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” which dominated the year's releases. This could have influenced Ebert's perception of the film, as he might have expected a more uplifting story, especially given the success of “E.T.”
In conclusion, while Roger Ebert's initial review of “The Thing” was disappointing, it's important to remember that film criticism is subjective. Ebert's opinion, though influential, is just one perspective among many. “The Thing” has since become a revered classic, and its impact on the horror genre is undeniable. It's a film that continues to provoke thought and discussion, and that, in itself, is a testament to its enduring legacy.
