The monsters in the classic 1954 science fiction film Them! are gigantic, irradiated ants. These colossal insects emerge as a terrifying national threat after being mutated by atomic radiation.
The Gigantic Threat of Them!
Them! marked a pivotal moment in cinema, introducing the concept of "big bugs" as a primary monstrous threat in the wake of the atomic age. The film centers on the discovery of a nest of these mutated creatures in the remote New Mexico desert.
Initially, the sheer size and destructive power of these ants present a localized danger. However, the threat escalates dramatically when authorities learn that two young queen ants, accompanied by their male consorts, have managed to escape the primary nest. This escape raises the alarming possibility of these highly adaptable and resilient creatures establishing new, widespread colonies across the nation, posing an existential risk to human civilization.
Origin and Impact of the Monster
The existence of these monstrous ants is directly attributed to the era's anxieties surrounding nuclear power and its potential unforeseen consequences.
- Type of Monster: Gigantic, carnivorous ants.
- Origin/Cause: Exposure to atomic radiation, specifically implied to be from nuclear testing in the New Mexico desert.
- Initial Discovery Location: New Mexico Desert.
- Primary Threat: Their size, strength, destructive capabilities, and, crucially, their ability to reproduce rapidly and establish new nests, leading to a potential global infestation.
- Behavior: Highly aggressive, intelligent (in their ability to organize and spread), and focused on colony expansion.
The ants' mutation from ordinary insects into enormous, indestructible predators symbolizes the fear of uncontrolled scientific advancement and the destructive power unleashed by humanity.
A Pioneer in Science Fiction Cinema
Them! stands out as one of the very first "nuclear monster" movies of the 1950s and is particularly significant for being the first to feature oversized insects as the primary antagonists. This film paved the way for numerous creature features that explored the terrifying possibilities of nature altered by human interference, especially nuclear technology. Its impact on the science fiction genre, particularly the giant monster subgenre, is profound, showcasing the enduring appeal of the "nature strikes back" narrative.
Summary of the Monster in Them!
To provide a clearer overview of the monsters in Them!, here's a summary:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Creature | Gigantic Ants |
| Cause of Mutation | Radiation from nuclear testing |
| Primary Location | New Mexico desert, with potential for national spread |
| Threat Level | High; capable of establishing new colonies and overwhelming human defenses. |
| Cinematic Impact | Pioneering "big bugs" and "nuclear monster" film |
