If you’re a fan of John Carpenter’s 1982 masterpiece, it’s time to head to the cellar and grab the good scotch. The team that brought you In Search of Darkness and the Rondo Award-winning Aliens Expanded has just announced the final pre-order window for their definitive documentary: The Thing Expanded.
The biggest news? They’ve officially secured the “Chess Wizard” himself. Kurt Russell has sat down for an exclusive, career-spanning interview to reflect on his iconic role as R.J. MacReady.
The Ultimate Tribute to Outpost 31
This is a massive deep dive into the isolated, paranoid world of one of horror’s greatest films. The film is directed by Ian Nathan and produced by the CREATORVC team (Robin Block, David Weiner, and Josh Weiss).
The pre-order window is short: It launched on February 24 and slams shut on March 24, 2026. This is your absolute last chance to snag the Blu-ray or digital copy at thethingexpanded.com.
The Cast & Crew: Everyone is Accounted For
The documentary boasts an incredible lineup. Along with Kurt Russell, the film features Keith David (Childs), Thomas G. Waites (Windows), and David Clennon (Palmer). Crew members Joel Polis (Fuchs), Richard Masur (Clark), and Peter Maloney (Bennings). It doesn’t stip there!
Legends, including Director John Carpenter, cinematographer Dean Cundey, and members of Rob Bottin’s legendary practical effects team, also appear. Be sure to check out our interview with VFX Master Alec Gillis.
Why This is a Big Deal
The Thing was famously panned when it first hit theaters, but its recent induction into the National Film Registry proves it has finally taken its rightful place in cinema history.
“Sitting down with Kurt Russell… was truly the culmination of an extraordinary journey,” says director Ian Nathan. “He was funny, forthright, and full of anecdotes. The Thing is finally getting the recognition that is long overdue.”
Beyond the original cast, the documentary features insights from Guillermo del Toro, Frank Darabont, Issa López, Eli Roth, Greg Nicotero, and even superfan Stephen Colbert.
The “Checkmate” Offer
If you pre-order before the March 24 deadline, you don’t just get the movie—you get to be part of it. You can actually get your name in the credits alongside John Carpenter and Kurt Russell, cementing your own spot in the film’s history.
