Created by Little Marvin, the series follows an anthology format — that is, each season presents a new story — but maintains as a common thread the discussion about racial inequality in the United States.
The plot that captivates — and disturbs
The first season follows the Emory family, who decide to leave North Carolina in search of a better life in Los Angeles during the 1950s. The goal is to escape the segregationist policies imposed by the Jim Crow Laws.
However, what seemed to be a fresh start quickly transforms into a nightmare.
When they move to a predominantly white neighborhood, the Emorys begin to suffer a series of racist attacks, ranging from verbal aggression to extreme situations of psychological and physical violence. All of this happens under an appearance of 'normalcy,' which makes the experience even more anguishing.
Additionally, the family also faces supernatural events — such as apparitions and unexplainable manifestations — that seem to be linked to past traumas.
This combination of real and fictional horror is what sets the series apart from more conventional productions.
Psychological terror: the true focus of the narrative
Unlike works that bet on easy scares, Them invests in psychological terror. Tension is built gradually, exploring the fear, anxiety, and suffering of the characters.
This style brings the series close to the work of Jordan Peele, known for films like Get Out, which also use horror as a tool for social criticism.
Another frequent point of comparison is with Lovecraft Country, which equally mixes supernatural elements with racial issues. However, many critics point out that Them adopts an even more intense approach and, at times, is difficult to watch.
The controversy that divided audiences and critics
Since its premiere, the series has generated strong repercussions — and not just positive ones.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the reception was mixed, reflecting the division between critics and audiences. While some praise the production's courage in addressing delicate themes, others criticize the excess of graphic violence.
The term 'torture porn' was frequently associated with the series. This happens when a work seems to exploit character suffering excessively, which can generate discomfort in viewers.
This discussion is especially relevant when it comes to themes like racism and historical violence. After all, to what extent is it necessary to expose these pains so explicitly?
Scenes that have an impact — and require emotional preparation
One of the most commented aspects of the series is the presence of extremely heavy scenes that can trigger some people.
There are episodes that present physical violence, psychological abuse, and traumatic situations in a quite explicit manner. For this reason, many viewers report difficulty watching until the end.
Furthermore, the production team itself adopted measures to deal with the intensity of filming. The actress Deborah Ayorinde, the series' protagonist, revealed in interviews that there was psychological support during the recordings.
