Revisiting one of the standout films of recent French horror, “(Them)” emerges as a testament to the genre’s evolution and expansion. In an era where horror is redefining itself across global landscapes, from the eerie terrains of East Asia to the intimate corners of Europe, French cinema delivers yet another gem. Directed by David Moreau and Xavier Palud, “(Them)” plunges viewers into a chilling narrative centered around a married couple isolated in the mountains, besieged by unseen assailants.
The film’s narrative might not boast groundbreaking originality, but its execution is where it shines. With a confident directorial approach that blends atmospheric lighting and immersive sound design, “(Them)” transforms the couple’s idyllic mountain retreat into a haunting arena of terror. What starts as a serene daytime locale quickly descends into a nightmare after dark—a testament to horror’s ability to subvert the familiar into the menacing.
Moreau and Palud’s mastery of tension and fear is evident throughout, surpassing even some renowned American horror auteurs in their grasp of the genre. The film’s visual and auditory prowess captivates horror aficionados, enveloping them in an unsettling experience where every shadow and sound becomes a harbinger of dread.
However, amidst its strengths, “(Them)” is not without its flaws. The reliance on clichés occasionally detracts from its overall impact. While the film effectively engrosses viewers within the first act, it falters in maintaining momentum once the action shifts away from the confines of the house. This lapse in pacing can leave audiences longing for the initial intensity, although the film does manage to redeem itself with a gripping final act that, albeit brief, leaves a lasting impression.
Performance-wise, “(Them)” benefits from strong portrayals by its lead actors, who deftly convey the escalating terror and desperation of their characters. Their nuanced performances anchor the film amidst its more predictable moments, steering clear of melodrama and reinforcing the film’s realism.
In summary, “(Them)” successfully caters to the expectations of horror enthusiasts, blending solid performances with a direction that excels in creating palpable unease. It’s a straightforward yet effective foray into realism-driven horror, where the setting’s sublime lighting and sound design elevate the tension to palpable levels.
Highlights and Critiques
Best Aspect: The film’s setting, enhanced by sublime lighting and sound design, effectively conveys the visceral fear rooted in real-life events.
Worst Aspect: The film’s uneven pacing leads to a premature climax, compounded by the overuse of clichés that occasionally disrupt its otherwise compelling narrative flow.