Introduction

In the annals of science fiction cinema, certain scenes stand out as iconic and unforgettable. One such scene that left an indelible mark on the genre can be found in the 1954 classic “Them!” Directed by Gordon Douglas, this film brought to life a menacing menace that was far removed from the alien creatures typically found in sci-fi: giant, mutated ants. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the iconic ant scene in “Them!” and provide some behind-the-scenes insights into its creation.

Scene Analysis

The ant scene in “Them!” occurs about halfway through the film and serves as a dramatic turning point. To set the stage, the plot revolves around the discovery of giant ants in the New Mexico desert, a result of nuclear testing gone awry. As the film progresses, the scientists, military personnel, and law enforcement agencies must contend with these oversized and highly intelligent insects.

The scene in question takes place within the massive storm drains beneath Los Angeles. The protagonists, Dr. Medford (Edmund Gwenn), his daughter Pat (Joan Weldon), the police, and the military descend into the dark, eerie labyrinth to confront the hidden hive of the giant ants.

1. Atmosphere: The scene masterfully builds suspense and tension. The storm drains provide a perfect setting, with their cramped, shadowy spaces and echoing sounds. The environment is oppressive, creating a sense of claustrophobia and foreboding.
2. Sound: Sound design is crucial in this scene. As the group navigates the labyrinthine tunnels, the audience hears the subtle but chilling sounds of the ants—a high-pitched chittering and a rhythmic thumping that conveys the approach of the monstrous insects. This audio component enhances the audience’s unease and anticipation.
3. Lighting: The filmmakers make brilliant use of lighting to enhance the fear factor. Shadows and stark contrasts play a significant role. As the characters’ flashlight beams dart around the dark tunnels, the audience is kept in suspense, only catching quick glimpses of the massive ants in the shadows.
4. The Reveal: The tension culminates when the group stumbles upon a massive chamber in the underground hive. The camera reveals the first giant ant, and it’s a terrifying sight. The creature, through a combination of practical effects and stop-motion animation, is a convincing blend of the ordinary ant’s appearance with its oversized, grotesque features. The ants are horrifying, and their presence in the scene is an unforgettable moment in film history.

Behind the Scenes

The creation of the ant scene in “Them!” involved a combination of techniques and artistry to bring the colossal insects to life:

1. Practical Effects: Giant ant models were created, with some measuring up to six feet in length. These models were manipulated by puppeteers and were skillfully integrated into the scene, giving the impression that the characters were encountering real, massive ants.
2. Stop-Motion Animation: To depict the ants in motion, stop-motion animation was used. This animation technique, painstaking and time-consuming, involved taking a series of individual frames, with each frame slightly altering the position of the ant model. When played back at regular speed, it created the illusion of movement.
3. Sound Design: The eerie and unsettling sound of the ants was created using a combination of animal sounds, including hissing cats and birds, as well as electronic sound effects. This audio work added a layer of realism to the creatures’ presence.

Conclusion

The ant scene in “Them!” is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of filmmakers of the 1950s. It successfully creates a nightmarish scenario where humanity is pitted against nature’s grotesque and uncontrollable creations. The meticulous scene design, lighting, and sound, as well as the groundbreaking special effects, have secured this sequence’s place in the pantheon of iconic sci-fi moments. If you’re a fan of classic science fiction or simply appreciate the artistry of cinema, “Them!” and its terrifying ant scene are a must-see, showcasing the ingenuity and innovation of a bygone era in filmmaking.