Watch Them

Them is a horror anthology series that premiered in 2021 on Amazon Prime Video, created by Little Marvin and produced by powerful voices in the industry. The show is set against the backdrop of the 1950s and delves into the experiences of Black families facing the horrors of not only supernatural elements but also the deeply ingrained racial issues prevalent during the era.

The first season of Them is titled "Covenant" and follows the story of an African American family who move from North Carolina to an all-white neighborhood in Los Angeles during the Great Migration. This migration period saw many Black families seeking better opportunities and escaping the oppressive environments of the South. However, within this new home, the family quickly discovers that their dream of a better life is overshadowed by not only the societal prejudice of their neighbors but also by a sinister force that seems to haunt them in their new town.

At the center of the narrative is the Emory family, composed of Henry, his wife, and their two daughters. The show intricately explores their dynamics, reflecting the various ways each family member copes with the external threats they face. The father, Henry, is portrayed as a protective figure, eager to maintain his family's safety and integrity in a hostile environment, while simultaneously dealing with his own internal struggles. His wife, who has her own experiences and traumas, is a grounding force within the family, trying to maintain a semblance of normality amidst the chaos surrounding them. The daughters face their own unique set of challenges, navigating the difficult terrain of childhood in an era where racism is rampant, layered with the haunting presence of supernatural elements.

The thematic depth of Them offers a multifaceted exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience. The show doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of systemic racism, showing how these societal issues impact both individual lives and families. It cleverly intertwines horror with historical context, making it a poignant commentary on the African American experience, echoing the traumas of both personal and collective histories.

Visually, Them employs a striking aesthetic that captures the essence of the 1950s. The production design and cinematography are meticulously crafted, with careful attention to detail that immerses viewers in the time period. The colors, costumes, and set design not only evoke nostalgia but also add layers of meaning to the story, creating a visual representation of the fear and tension that permeate the family's new home.

The supernatural elements of the show blur the lines between reality and horror, often serving as metaphors for the psychological traumas that the family endures. Each character's experiences are intensified by these eerie occurrences, which enhance the narrative's exploration of fear—both as something tangible in their environment and as an internal struggle arising from their past and present realities.

The score and sound design contribute significantly to the unsettling atmosphere of Them. The auditory landscape shifts from orchestrated tension-building sequences to moments marked by absolute silence, capturing the audience's attention and evoking a sense of dread. The choices made in sound further amplify the horror elements, providing a haunting backdrop to the family's ongoing struggle.

The storytelling is rich and layered, moving through timelines and perspectives that help to paint a full picture of the Emory family's journey. As secrets unravel and each member’s past collides with their present, the show retains a pace that keeps viewers engaged, balancing character development with suspenseful storytelling. While the horror is palpable, it is the emotional weight of the family's experiences that resonate, requiring viewers to confront unsettling truths about society and history.

Them effectively opens up discussions on the nature of fear—emotional, societal, and supernatural—and how these fears can manifest in our lives. The show ultimately illustrates that while they may face external threats, it is often the internal battles of prejudice, trauma, and familial dynamics that prove to be the most terrifying.

Amidst its horrific narrative, Them is also a deeply human story about love, survival, and tenacity in the face of overwhelming odds. It compels viewers to not only experience the frightful images on screen but also to reflect on the broader implications of the narratives presented, ensuring that its themes resonate long after the credits roll. In doing so, it captures a critical moment in American history while skillfully intertwining it with the horror genre, making for a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Them is a series that ran for 2 seasons (17 episodes) between August 15, 2018 and on