The Thing: Understanding the Transformation Process in 1982 and 2011

The film The Thing (1982 and 2011) presents a fascinating portrayal of an extraterrestrial organism that can disguise itself as any human it comes into contact with. A common question among fans concerns the time it takes for a human to be re-assimilated after initially being re-allverted. Let's delve into the mechanics of this process and explore the key differences between the 1982 and 2011 versions.

Understanding the Transformation Process

The transformation process is a complex one, largely dependent on the degree of exposure to the alien organism. In the 1982 version, we see the process by which Charlie Palmer, played by Kurt Russell, is initially re-assimilated. The alien disfigures and detaches from Palmer before he attacks Alison Windows (Diane Ladd), resulting in a rapid transformation within a few minutes. However, the process is not always as straightforward in all cases.

The First Encounter in the 1982 Movie

Consider the first encounter with the alien in the 1982 movie. The alien, when it first latches onto its chosen victim, usually takes over the human quickly. For instance, when the first victim of the alien, apparently the creature that caused the first chest-burst, is re-assimilated, the process is swift. The alien's intimate contact and absorption by the host body indicate a rapid re-assimilation. In both cases, the alien seems to utilize the host's body fluid, which likely facilitates the transformation process.

Indirect Contamination

In the 1982 movie, when the alien contaminates a host indirectly, the rate of re-assimilation can vary. This is evident in the case of the experimental subjects. For example, once the alien enters a can of blood stored with the organism, it quickly re-assimilates the first person, Jim Barker (David Delourme), who was not in direct contact with the organism but whose blood was corrupted by the alien. This suggests that the infection can spread through bodily fluids, particularly blood, in a relatively short period of time.

2011 Remake: Enhanced Contamination Mechanics

The 2011 remake of The Thing introduces a more advanced form of the alien, which exhibits different re-assimilation mechanics compared to the 1982 version. In this film, the alien's re-assimilation is much more gradual and comprehensive. The alien consumes the host's blood and organs more systematically, often absorbing various parts of the body.

For instance, in the 2011 movie, when Captain Childs (Jean-Michel Fortier) is re-assimilated, the process is more drawn out. The alien takes over multiple organs and muscles before completing the transformation. This suggests a more intricate re-assimilation process that involves a detailed mapping and assimilation of various body parts before achieving a complete transformation.

Conclusion

The specific timeframe for re-assimilation in The Thing (1982 and 2011) is variable and often contingent on the method of initial contact and the extent of contamination. In the 1982 movie, the process is generally swift and direct, while the 2011 remake includes a more complex and gradual transformation. Both films emphasize the fluidity and adaptability of the alien's abilities, making it a formidable and terrifying antagonist.

Understanding these differences not only enhances your appreciation of the films but also provides insight into the complex biology and transformation mechanics of the alien. Whether you're a fan of the 1982 version or the 2011 remake, the re-assimilation process is a crucial element that sets these films apart and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.