Invasion of the Body Snatchers and The Thing present two of the worst alien threats in sci-fi/horror, but which would be more likely to end humanity? If there's one thing 2020 will be most known for in the history books, it'll probably be how Coronavirus brought humanity to its knees, at least for a time. While not quite the black plague, it's certainly the largest worldwide pandemic in many years. The threats found in Invasion of the Body Snatchers and The Thing aren't the same as a virus, but they do operate similarly in some respects.
Like a virus, the alien menaces found in Invasion of the Body Snatchers and The Thing seek to infect every human they come into contact with, regardless of race, sex, religion, or political affiliation. They're also extremely contagious, as all it takes is some time by oneself near someone that's already infected to create the perfect opportunity for community spread. That right there is actually an interesting difference, as Coronavirus spreads best in big crowds.
Needless to say, with the pandemic continuing, many people have their minds on the apocalypse, even if this virus isn't likely to cause it. Invasion of the Body Snatchers and The Thing are definitely movies with apocalyptic implications, but which is the more dire threat?
Body Snatchers vs. The Thing: Which Alien Threat Is Worse?
In a move sure to surprise many horror fans, we're ready to declare Invasion of the Body Snatchers' alien infiltrators as the more insidious threat to humanity's survival. On the surface, the creature from The Thing might seem more obviously dangerous. It kills in a much more elaborate way, and is usually much more violent in how it takes prey over. Victims also seem to suffer much more pain during the assimilation process. In Invasion of the Body Snatchers, the aliens aren't flashy like The Thing, instead, they wait until it's nice and quiet, and install a pod near a target.
Once that target, or targets falls asleep, they're copied and the original is killed, fairly quietly, and unlikely to be noticed unless someone happens to walk in exactly when the process is taking place. The main advantage The Thing has over the Body Snatchers when it comes to infiltration is the ability to perfectly copy its victim's personality, instead of them being rendered emotionless. All in all though, it seems like it would be much easier for the Body Snatchers to fully take over humanity and claim the Earth for themselves than The Thing, due to their quieter, more innocuous tactics. Of course, The Thing would probably end humanity eventually too. Humans are such easy prey.