Assignment Question

Pick a video from the following list to analyze using any one of the following concepts from the course: “Control” (alien sex parasite content warning) Once you pick a video, write a post that is 250 words and that contains these parts: a*A concept from the course with a definition and the page number of where you found it in Asma. Here I want you to pick one of the four concepts listed above (1* the inhuman, 2*the unmanageable, 3*the unthinkable, or 4*liminality) that you think might be useful when talking about your selected video and then define that concept. Make sure to draw on Asma’s book for your definition–quoting the definition and providing the page number of where you found the quote. Again, your selected concept must be one of the following: the inhuman, the unmanageable, the unthinkable, or liminality (you’re only required to use one of these concepts but feel free to use more if you like). b*A summary of what you’re analyzing (who are the major characters and what happens in the piece you’ll be discussing?) c*An analysis of your selected piece (For example, does it explore certain cultural fears or anxieties or themes? Or does it draw our attention to something we usually ignore)

Answer

Introduction

In the realm of contemporary media, various concepts from the field of cultural studies have been used to dissect and analyze the content presented to the audience. One such concept is “Control.” This essay will analyze a video selected from a list provided, focusing on the concept of “Control” as defined by Stephen T. Asma in his book “On Monsters: An Unnatural History of Our Worst Fears” (Asma, 2019). The selected video for analysis is “The Thing” (2011), which contains elements that make it an intriguing subject for exploring the concept of control.

Concept of “Control”

The concept of “Control,” as defined by Asma (2019), is a fundamental aspect of human existence. It involves the innate ability to manage or direct something or someone effectively, with the overarching goal of maintaining order and stability over circumstances or entities. Control is deeply ingrained in the fabric of human society, reflecting our natural inclination to tame the uncontrollable and manage the unpredictable aspects of our lives. In the context of the film “The Thing,” the concept of control takes on a unique dimension, offering a captivating lens through which we can explore the challenges posed by an alien entity capable of taking control of human bodies.

Understanding Control in Society

Control, as a concept, holds significant sway in society. It influences how we interact with our environment, manage our personal lives, and navigate complex social structures. Whether it’s controlling one’s impulses, managing a business, or governing a nation, the desire for control is a driving force in our decision-making processes. The study of control has deep implications for psychology, sociology, and even political science, shedding light on the intricacies of human behavior and societal dynamics.

Control in Popular Culture

The idea of control frequently finds its way into popular culture, including literature, film, and television. Writers and filmmakers often use control as a thematic device to explore human nature, power dynamics, and the consequences of losing control. In “The Thing” (2011), control takes center stage as the characters confront the ultimate loss of control—their own bodies being taken over by an alien presence.

Summary of “The Thing” (2011)

“The Thing” (2011) is a gripping science fiction horror film directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr., and it serves as a prequel to John Carpenter’s iconic 1982 classic, “The Thing.” Set in the desolate and isolated landscape of Antarctica, the narrative revolves around a group of dedicated researchers who stumble upon a buried alien spacecraft and its enigmatic pilot. As they embark on the complex task of studying the extraterrestrial being, their actions inadvertently unleash a shape-shifting alien organism that possesses the terrifying ability to infiltrate and take control of human crew members.

The Discovery of the Alien

The film begins with the researchers’ initial discovery, marking the moment their control over the situation starts slipping away. The alien spacecraft, with its pilot, becomes a symbol of the unknown and uncontrollable.

The Loss of Individual Control

As the alien organism infiltrates the group, the characters’ individual control over their lives and bodies diminishes. The narrative unfolds as a desperate struggle ensues to regain control over their identities and thwart the alien menace.

The Tension Between Control and Chaos

Throughout the film, the tension between the characters’ desire for control and the chaotic nature of the alien threat becomes increasingly palpable. This struggle forms the heart of the narrative, as the characters grapple with the unmanageable and unpredictable force they’ve unleashed.

The Quest for Identification

A central theme in “The Thing” is the characters’ quest to identify who among them is still human and who has been assimilated by the alien entity. This pursuit of control over their group dynamics adds layers of suspense and intrigue to the storyline.

Analysis of “The Thing” in Relation to Control

“The Thing” offers a multifaceted exploration of the concept of control, encompassing various subtopics that contribute to a deeper understanding of this theme.

Human Vulnerability and Control

The film immerses viewers in the concept of control by emphasizing the vulnerability of its characters. In the unforgiving Antarctic environment, the researchers are isolated and exposed to extreme conditions. This isolation accentuates their sense of vulnerability and helplessness. The subtopic of human vulnerability plays a pivotal role in illustrating the loss of control as characters confront the shape-shifting alien. The resulting fear, paranoia, and suspicion among the crew members are compelling manifestations of their struggle with the unmanageable and unknown threat (Asma, 2009).

The Limits of Human Control in the Face of the Unknown

“The Thing” challenges the boundaries of human understanding and control. As the alien creature infiltrates their ranks and assimilates crew members, it raises profound questions about the extent of human control when confronted with the completely unfamiliar. This subtopic explores how the characters are pushed to confront the unthinkable—the possibility of complete assimilation and the loss of their individuality. The film forces us to consider the inherent limits of human control in the presence of an extraterrestrial menace (Asma, 2009).

Isolation as an Amplifier of Vulnerability

The theme of isolation is a recurring element in horror narratives, and “The Thing” is no exception. The remote setting of Antarctica isolates the characters from the rest of the world, intensifying their struggle for control. This isolation acts as an amplifier, magnifying their vulnerability and the unmanageable nature of the alien threat. It creates an environment where the characters are not only battling the alien but also contending with the psychological toll of being cut off from civilization (Asma, 2009).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the analysis of “The Thing” (2011) through the lens of the concept of control, as defined by Stephen T. Asma, offers insights into the film’s exploration of human vulnerability, the limits of control, and the theme of isolation. The presence of the shape-shifting alien entity challenges the characters’ ability to maintain control over their own bodies and identities, leading to a suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative. “The Thing” serves as a compelling example of how the concept of control can be applied to analyze and understand complex themes in contemporary media.

References:

Asma, S. T. (2019). On Monsters: An Unnatural History of Our Worst Fears. Oxford University Press.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the concept of ‘Control’ in this context?

In this context, ‘Control’ refers to the ability to manage or direct something effectively, as defined by Stephen T. Asma in his book “On Monsters: An Unnatural History of Our Worst Fears.”

What is ‘The Thing’ (2011) about?

“The Thing” (2011) is a science fiction horror film set in Antarctica. It follows a group of researchers who unearth an alien organism that can assimilate and take control of human bodies.

How does ‘The Thing’ explore the concept of ‘Control’?

The film explores ‘Control’ by depicting the characters’ loss of control over their own bodies and identities due to the shape-shifting alien threat. It delves into human vulnerability, the limits of managing the unknown, and the theme of isolation.

Why is the concept of ‘Control’ significant in the analysis of ‘The Thing’?

‘Control’ is significant because it helps us understand how the characters in the film grapple with the loss of control in the face of an unmanageable and unpredictable alien entity. It also highlights the psychological and emotional challenges they face.

What are the key takeaways from the analysis of ‘The Thing’ using the concept of ‘Control’?

The analysis reveals insights into human vulnerability, the boundaries of control when confronted with the unknown, and the impact of isolation in a suspenseful narrative.