Yes, “Them” is undeniably a horror series, and a particularly effective one. It utilizes historical context and social commentary to amplify the supernatural, creating a chilling and unsettling exploration of racial terror and psychological breakdown.
Exploring the Horrors of “Them”
“Them,” particularly the first season, Covenant, isn’t simply a jump-scare fest. It’s a multi-layered horror experience that digs into the root causes of fear, exposing the ugliness of prejudice and its devastating impact on individuals and families. While it employs classic horror tropes like malevolent spirits and disturbing imagery, its true horror lies in the systemic racism and everyday acts of cruelty inflicted upon the Black Emory family as they move into an all-white neighborhood in Compton, California, in 1953. This blend of supernatural and real-world horrors is what distinguishes “Them” and makes it so profoundly disturbing. The show masterfully crafts an atmosphere of dread and paranoia, leaving viewers questioning what is real and what is a manifestation of the family’s trauma.
The success of “Them” in eliciting horror stems from its careful construction of suspense. The show doesn’t immediately reveal its supernatural elements; instead, it gradually introduces them alongside the very real horrors of racial discrimination. This slow burn creates a sense of unease that builds throughout the season, culminating in a truly terrifying climax. Moreover, the show’s unflinching portrayal of violence and its exploration of the psychological toll of racism contribute significantly to its overall horror impact. It’s a challenging watch, designed to provoke thought and evoke strong emotional responses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Them”
Here are some of the most common questions surrounding “Them,” addressing its themes, historical context, and overall impact:
H3: What makes “Them” different from other horror shows?
“Them” stands apart due to its strong social commentary. While many horror shows rely solely on jump scares and supernatural elements, “Them” integrates these elements with the very real horrors of racism and social injustice. This creates a deeper and more unsettling viewing experience. The focus isn’t just on being scared; it’s on understanding the historical and societal forces that contribute to the characters’ fears. The show dares to confront uncomfortable truths, making it a more thought-provoking and impactful piece of horror.
H3: Is “Them” based on a true story?
While the Emory family is fictional, the events depicted in “Them” are inspired by real historical events, particularly the wave of white flight and racial tensions that swept across American suburbs in the 1950s. The show draws heavily on the experiences of Black families who faced discrimination and violence as they attempted to integrate into predominantly white neighborhoods. The Red Summer of 1919, a period of intense racial violence across the United States, also serves as a significant backdrop for the narrative. While not a direct adaptation of a single event, “Them” reflects the pervasive racism of the era and the psychological trauma it inflicted.
H3: Is “Them” Season 2 connected to Season 1?
Each season of “Them” is designed to be an anthology, meaning that each season tells a different story with new characters and a new setting, albeit always exploring the same central themes of racial terror. While Season 1 (Covenant) focuses on the Emory family in 1950s Compton, Season 2 (The Scare) shifted to 1991 Los Angeles, exploring a different family and a different kind of horror. Although the actors sometimes recur in different roles, the narratives are largely self-contained. The connective tissue is the exploration of the enduring legacy of racial trauma in America.
H3: Is “Them” too graphic or violent?
“Them” contains graphic violence and disturbing content that may be unsettling for some viewers. The show does not shy away from depicting the brutality of racism and the psychological effects of trauma. While the violence is not gratuitous, it is often intense and emotionally charged. Viewers should be aware of this before watching and consider their own sensitivity to such content. The show uses violence not for shock value, but to underscore the gravity of the situations and the real-world horrors it explores.
H3: What are the main themes explored in “Them”?
The central theme of “Them” is racial terror, exploring how racism manifests in both overt and subtle ways. Other key themes include:
- The psychological effects of trauma: The show delves into the lasting impact of racist violence and discrimination on individuals and families.
- The American Dream: It questions the attainability of the American Dream for Black families in a racially hostile society.
- The nature of evil: “Them” explores the roots of evil, both within individuals and within societal structures.
- Family and community: It examines the importance of family and community in the face of adversity.
H3: Who are the key actors in “Them” and what are their roles?
The first season, Covenant, features a stellar cast including:
- Deborah Ayorinde as Lucky Emory, a mother struggling to protect her family.
- Ashley Thomas as Henry Emory, a war veteran grappling with PTSD and racial trauma.
- Shahadi Wright Joseph as Ruby Lee Emory, a teenager navigating the challenges of adolescence in a hostile environment.
- Melody Hurd as Gracie Emory, the youngest child who experiences some of the most disturbing supernatural events.
These actors deliver powerful and nuanced performances, bringing the characters to life and making their experiences deeply relatable.
H3: Where can I watch “Them”?
“Them” is exclusively available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. A subscription to Amazon Prime is required to access the series.
H3: What is the historical context of the Emorys moving to Compton?
In the 1950s, Compton, California, was undergoing a significant demographic shift. Initially a predominantly white suburb, it became increasingly attractive to Black families seeking better opportunities and housing. This influx of Black residents led to racial tensions and discriminatory practices, as white residents attempted to maintain their dominance and prevent integration. The Emory family’s experience in “Them” reflects this historical reality, highlighting the challenges and dangers faced by Black families who dared to move into white neighborhoods.
H3: How does “Them” use supernatural elements to enhance the horror?
The supernatural elements in “Them” serve as a metaphor for the psychological impact of racism. The ghosts and malevolent spirits represent the lingering trauma and the insidious nature of prejudice. They embody the invisible forces that work to oppress and marginalize Black communities. By blending the supernatural with the real, “Them” amplifies the horror and forces viewers to confront the ways in which racism can haunt individuals and communities. The supernatural also creates a sense of uncertainty and paranoia, blurring the lines between reality and perception.
H3: What criticisms has “Them” received?
“Them” has faced criticism for its graphic depiction of violence against Black characters, with some viewers finding it to be gratuitous and exploitative. Some critics have argued that the show perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces the idea that Black trauma is solely for white consumption. However, others have defended the show, arguing that the violence is necessary to accurately portray the horrors of racism and to challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. This debate highlights the complex and sensitive nature of depicting racial trauma in media.
H3: Is “Them” intended for a specific audience?
“Them” is intended for mature audiences due to its graphic violence, disturbing content, and complex themes. It is particularly relevant for viewers interested in exploring the history of racism in America and the psychological impact of trauma. However, it is important to approach the show with caution and to be prepared for its challenging and potentially triggering content.
H3: What is the overall message or takeaway from “Them”?
“Them” ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the enduring legacy of racism and the importance of confronting its insidious effects. It underscores the need for empathy, understanding, and a commitment to dismantling systems of oppression. While the show is undeniably disturbing, it is also a powerful and important piece of social commentary that can spark dialogue and promote greater awareness of the ongoing struggle for racial justice. It reminds us that the horrors of the past can continue to haunt us if we fail to learn from them.