Index of Them S01E06: Exploring the Episode and the Series
Them is an Amazon Prime original horror anthology series created by Little Marvin and produced by Lena Waithe. Set in the 1950s, it follows a Black family that moves into a predominantly white neighborhood in California and faces racist and supernatural threats. Them is a chilling and provocative examination of racism, trauma, and the American Dream.
Episode 6, titled “Daughter,” is a powerful and heartbreaking installment that focuses on Ruby Emory, the teenage daughter of the family. It explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the legacy of trauma. In this article, we will delve deeper into the episode and the series, and discuss why it is a must-watch for fans of horror and social commentary.
The Plot
In “Daughter,” Ruby (Shahadi Wright Joseph) struggles to fit in at her new school, where she is the only Black student. She is bullied and harassed by her classmates, who call her racist slurs and vandalize her locker. Meanwhile, she develops a crush on a white girl named Gracie (Melody Hurd), but their relationship is fraught with tension and secrecy.
As Ruby navigates the complexities of adolescence and race, she is haunted by the ghosts of her family’s past. She discovers a hidden room in the basement of their house, which is filled with disturbing artifacts and memories. She learns about the traumatic history of her ancestors, who were enslaved and tortured by a white family in the same neighborhood.
Ruby’s struggle to reconcile her identity and her history comes to a head in a shocking and tragic climax. The episode is a powerful exploration of the psychological effects of racism and intergenerational trauma.
The Series
Them has been praised for its bold and unflinching portrayal of racism and its effects on Black people. The series is set in the 1950s, a time when racial segregation and violence were rampant in the United States. It draws inspiration from classic horror films like The Shining and Get Out, but also incorporates historical and sociopolitical context.
The Emory family, the protagonists of the series, are portrayed as complex and relatable characters. They are not just victims of racism and terror, but also have their own internal struggles and relationships. The series also explores the dynamics of whiteness, as it portrays the white characters as both perpetrators and victims of racism.
Them has been criticized by some for its graphic and triggering content, including scenes of violence, sexual assault, and torture. However, the creators have defended the series as a necessary and cathartic depiction of the horrors of racism.
The Cast
Them features a talented and diverse cast of actors. Deborah Ayorinde and Ashley Thomas play the parents, Lucky and Henry Emory, respectively. Shahadi Wright Joseph and Melody Hurd play their daughters, Ruby and Gracie. Other notable actors include Alison Pill, Ryan Kwanten, and Anika Noni Rose.
The creators have emphasized the importance of casting Black actors in lead roles and giving them agency over their characters’ narratives. They have also highlighted the need for representation and diversity in the entertainment industry as a whole.
Conclusion
Index of Them S01E06 is a powerful and emotional episode that showcases the strengths of the series as a whole. It is a must-watch for fans of horror and social commentary, as it combines both genres to create a unique and provocative experience. Them is a significant addition to the horror canon, as it tackles important and timely issues with intelligence and skill.
