The Thing (1982) – Historical/ Reception Analysis
In his chapter ‘The Question of Genre in Cult Film and Fandom’, Matt Hills notes that ‘what requires study’ in each ‘instance is the extent to which any “cult” is actually designated a cult, by whom, and with what further cultural repercussions or appropriations’ (Hills, 2007, p.448). This essay should trace the history of The Thing’s rise to cult status, from initial release onwards. You will need to draw on and analyse not only the film itself but also the way it has been received, approached and assessed over time, in reviews, online fan discussion, and in marketing material (trailers, interviews, DVD commentaries). Drawing on and responding to this argument, your assignment should trace the history of one relevant film or television programmes rise to cult status, from initial release onwards. In order to do this, you will need to draw on and analyse not only the film/TV programme itself but also the way it has been received, approached and assessed, over time, in reviews, online fan discussion, and in marketing material (trailers, DVD commentaries, interviews) accompanying its release and re-releases in different formats (video, DVD, Blu-ray, video on demand). Many thanks
