Amazon Prime Video's 'Them' is Psychological and Supernatural Horror at its Finest

First of all, let’s get something clear. Them is not Us. Granted, the comparisons are to be expected, given the similarity in names, genre, and the fact that it’s a Black family. Us is a fantastic horror work in its own right.

However, Them is a series focused on how racism affects the psyche, and the horrors Black families experienced in search of a better life.

And, my God, the weight of racism is heavy.

That’s a thought I had, sighing, feeling the air leaving me as I watched a scene. It was an innocuous but recognizable moment (as are most in the series so far). Henry (the father), Ruby and Gracie (daughters) at the ice cream shop, and the look of relief and relaxation when the waitress treated them as people, and without a hint of racism.

And the impact all of it has on Lucky (mother) can’t be stressed enough.

One of the things this series shows really well is the building toll of microagressions. The stealthy “thousand cuts” way each one comes in, creating this relax-and-stretch, wear and tear impact on the psyche. Until something finally breaks.