Them! is one of the first of the 1950s “nuclear monster” films, and the first “big bug” feature to use insects as the monster.
Grade: B
| Them! | |
|---|---|
Theatrical release poster
|
|
Made by Warner, this black-and-white sci-fi monster film was produced by David Weisbart, and directed by Gordon Douglas.
It stars James Whitmore, Edmund Gwenn, Joan Weldon, and James Arness.
The film is based on an original story treatment by George Worthing Yates, which was then developed into a screenplay by Ted Sherdeman and adaptation by Russell Hughes.
A nest of gigantic irradiated ants is discovered in the New Mexico desert; they quickly become a national threat when it is discovered that two young queen ants and their consorts have escaped to establish new nests.
The national search that follows finally culminates in a battle with Them in the concrete spillways and storm drain system of Los Angeles.
An FBI agent and a pair of scientists join a government task force to investigate the origins of the nest and stop two queens from establishing a new colony before it’s too late.
Them! has been praised for its suspenseful pacing and life-like effects.
Over the years, the movie has gained a large and loyal cult following, including many Hollywood directors.
My Oscar Book:
