In 2010, Amalgamated Dynamics Inc. promised practical effects galore in the much-anticipated prequel to John Carpenter's The Thing. And while the studio was hell-bent on delivering, the producers had different plans. After blood, sweat, and tears were poured into concepts, models, and robotics, the ADI team's hard work was washed over with CGI. What began as an homage to 80's practical effects work, ended up being a CGI-saturated disappointment. And all we are left with is a 5 minute video ADI posted on YouTube of what could have been.
But ADI didn't give up. They took to KickStarter and began a campaign for an all-practical effects scifi horror creature feature. They wanted to prove that the horror community still wanted unadulterated practical effects. And they were proven right. The campaign raised beyond its goal and got producer backing from there. And while it has been an extremely long-gestating film, it looks to be releasing this year at some point.
Harbinger Down looks to be the horror film for the ages, providing an interesting scifi story on top of tangible special effects. It has the goal of paying homage to the horror films of old. In the 80's they were forced to be creative and innovative in order to pull off fantastic shots and amazing scenes. ADI is taking the technology of today to produce those same effects in Harbinger Down. If successful, it will satisfy a sweet tooth for these two horror fans that has been long left wanting. If just a bit more successful than that, and maybe we will have a revival of one of the dying crafts of film making. Guillermo del Toro couldn't keep the ship upright by himself, and now he's got some help!
Be sure to keep an eye out for Harbinger Down. We know we will be, and we will be sure to keep you up to date on its news.