8 Movies to Watch If You Like ‘The Thing’

If you’re a fan of John Carpenter’s classic horror film The Thing (1982), then you know the thrill of watching a gripping sci-fi horror film that keeps you on the edge of your seat. With its chilling atmosphere, incredible practical effects, and intense story, The Thing is a masterpiece. If you’re like me, you’ve been chasing the thrill of that movie ever since. Not many compare to it, but there are some that are worth a watch. Here’s a list of movies that capture the same eerie, suspenseful, and downright terrifying vibes as The Thing!

More stuff to watch

• If you like the icy setting of The Thing, then you should also check out my list of more Horror & Thriller Movies Set in Snow and Ice

1. The Thing (2011)

Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. and starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Joel Edgerton, The Thing (2011) is a prequel to the 1982 film. It tells the story of the Norwegian research team that first discovers the alien creature buried in the ice. As they study it, the creature breaks free, leading to paranoia and horror as it begins to assimilate the team members. Though not as good as the original movie, it’s a fun watch for the gore and special effects alone. The movie also gives us more backstory to the original, if you’re interested in that.

2. The Blob (1988)

Directed by Chuck Russell and starring Kevin Dillon and Shawnee Smith, “The Blob” is a remake of the 1958 classic. This movie follows a small town that gets terrorized by a gelatinous alien lifeform. The creature grows bigger as it consumes everything in its path. What I love about “The Blob” is its practical effects and the way it builds tension. It’s a must-watch if you enjoy the combination of horror and sci-fi.

3. 30 Days of Night (2007)

Directed by David Slade and starring Josh Hartnett and Melissa George, “30 Days of Night” is based on the comic book miniseries of the same name. The film is set in a small Alaskan town that is plunged into darkness for a month, during which it is attacked by a horde of bloodthirsty vampires. The movie’s bleak setting, relentless pace, and gruesome visuals make it a standout horror film. The sense of isolation and the fight for survival against an unstoppable force will definitely remind you of “The Thing.”

4. Event Horizon (1997)

Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson and featuring Laurence Fishburne and Sam Neill, “Event Horizon” is a space horror film that’s truly unsettling. The story revolves around a rescue mission to a spaceship that disappeared into a black hole and has now returned. The crew discovers that the ship has brought something back with it—something evil. The film’s claustrophobic atmosphere and terrifying visuals make it a perfect follow-up to “The Thing.”

5. The Mist (2007)

Frank Darabont directed this adaptation of Stephen King’s novella, starring Thomas Jane and Marcia Gay Harden. “The Mist” centers on a group of people trapped in a supermarket by a mysterious, otherworldly mist filled with deadly creatures. The movie excels in creating a sense of dread and showcases human nature under extreme pressure. The ending is also one of the most shocking I’ve ever seen.

6. Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)

Directed by Philip Kaufman and starring Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, and Leonard Nimoy, this version of “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” is a must-see. It tells the story of an alien species that gradually replaces humans with emotionless duplicates. The movie’s slow build of paranoia and suspense is incredibly well done, making it a great choice for fans of “The Thing.”

7. The Fly (1986)

David Cronenberg directed this body horror classic, starring Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis. “The Fly” follows a scientist who, after an experiment goes wrong, slowly transforms into a grotesque human-fly hybrid. Cronenberg’s use of practical effects and the emotional depth of the story make it both horrifying and heartbreaking. It’s a film that sticks with you long after the credits roll.

8. The Descent (2005)

Directed by Neil Marshall and starring Shauna Macdonald and Natalie Mendoza, “The Descent” is about a group of women who go spelunking in an uncharted cave system and encounter monstrous creatures. The movie’s claustrophobic setting and intense scares are reminiscent of “The Thing,” making it a thrilling watch. The sense of isolation and the group’s fight for survival will keep you glued to the screen.

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If The Thing left you craving more spine-chilling horror, these movies should be at the top of your watchlist. Each one offers its own unique take on the same style of horror, from alien invasions and body horror to psychological thrills and claustrophobic nightmares. Enjoy!