Directed by Gordon Douglas, “Them!” is a classic science fiction film that takes audiences on a thrilling journey into the world of giant ants. Released during the height of the Cold War, the movie capitalizes on atomic anxiety, introducing colossal insects mutated by nuclear testing in the New Mexico desert.

The film begins with a gripping mystery as police sergeant Ben Peterson (James Whitmore) stumbles upon a young girl wandering the desert, traumatized and unable to speak. The investigation leads to the discovery of a nest of giant ants, and as the military and scientists join forces to combat the menace, Them! unfolds into a tense and suspenseful tale.

One of Them!’s strengths lies in its innovative use of special effects for its time. The giant ant models, although primitive compared to contemporary CGI, manage to evoke a sense of terror, aided by the eerie sound design accompanying their approach. The filmmakers cleverly employ shadows and darkness to create suspense, revealing the monsters gradually, and heightening the fear factor.

The ensemble cast delivers solid performances, with James Whitmore and James Arness standing out. The characters are well-developed, each contributing to the team effort to eradicate the ant threat. However, some dialogue and interactions feel clichéd and melodramatic, reflecting the era’s cinematic conventions.

Them! successfully blends horror, science fiction, and even a touch of film noir. The first half, building up the mystery and tension, is particularly engaging. As the plot unfolds, however, the film occasionally struggles to maintain its initial momentum. Some scenes feel stretched, and the pacing becomes uneven, impacting the overall sense of urgency.

The film’s score, composed by Bronislau Kaper, complements the suspenseful atmosphere, heightening the emotional impact of key scenes. Theremin, a popular instrument in 1950s sci-fi films, adds an otherworldly quality to the soundtrack, enhancing the sense of the unknown.

Them! is undeniably a product of its time, with its themes of nuclear paranoia and the fear of the unknown reflecting the societal anxieties of the 1950s. Despite its flaws and occasional pacing issues, the film remains a landmark in the creature feature genre, paving the way for future monster movies. Its influence can be seen in subsequent films that explore the consequences of mankind’s scientific meddling.

In conclusion, Them! is a classic that deserves recognition for its pioneering efforts in the realm of giant creature features. While it may not achieve perfection in every aspect, its impact on the genre and the nostalgia it evokes make it a worthwhile watch for fans of vintage science fiction and horror.

IMDB