Pam Grier, a seasoned actress known for her roles in the horror genre, recently discussed the evolution of the genre and her intricate role in Season 2 of ‘Them’. In an interview with Decider, Grier expressed her excitement about how the genre has grown and evolved over the years.
Grier, who starred in horror movies like Scream Blacula Scream and The Twilight People in the 1970s, and more recently in Pet Sematary: Bloodlines, noted that the genre has reached new heights in terms of execution and imagination. She mentioned how the advancements in technology, such as sci-fi elements, camera techniques, and lighting, have allowed filmmakers to create truly captivating and terrifying experiences for the audience.
‘Them’, a horror anthology series on Prime Video, premiered in 2021 with a two-season order. The first season, titled Covenant, is set in the 1950s and follows a black family who faces horrifying experiences after moving into an all-white neighborhood. Season 2, titled The Scare, takes place in 1991 and revolves around an LAPD detective investigating a gruesome murder amid the tensions caused by the assault on Black activist Rodney King. Grier plays Athena Reeve, the mother of the detective, portrayed by Deborah Ayorinde.
Grier shared that she was familiar with ‘Them’ before accepting her role and considered it an exciting opportunity to work with new platforms and directors. Despite not having watched the show entirely due to personal circumstances, she was approached by show creator Little Marvin to play Athena. Marvin expressed confidence in Grier’s ability to bring depth to the complex character and convinced her to join the project.
The complexities of the character Athena intrigued Grier. She described Athena as a strong woman from the Civil Rights Movement who is now facing challenges related to her health, youth, and a secret that could potentially impact her family. Grier found the character’s journey compelling and was drawn to the role because of its depth and complexity.
Filming paranormal sequences in the series, such as Grier’s character witnessing her washing machine turning into a monster, proved to be exhausting for the actress. She emphasized how these moments tend to stick with her even after filming. Despite being a veteran in the horror genre, Grier admitted that she does not welcome unpredictability into her personal life and prefers to avoid dark rooms or situations that may compromise her safety.
While on set, Grier constantly thought about the audience’s reaction. She wondered if they would experience the same fear and vulnerability she did while filming. Drawing parallels to her previous work in movies like Foxy Brown, Grier highlighted the importance of training the audience to accept and appreciate horror. She praised Little Marvin’s ability to create an in-your-face horror experience that demands attention from viewers.
In addition to finding support in Little Marvin, Grier formed a genuine bond with Ayorinde, who plays the detective in ‘Them’. Grier expressed her admiration for Ayorinde’s strength, independence, curiosity, and adventurous spirit, qualities that she had always envisioned in a daughter. She enjoyed working with Ayorinde and witnessing the growth of her character from the first installment to the second.
Season 2 of ‘Them’ is currently streaming on Prime Video, offering viewers a thrilling and thought-provoking horror experience. With talented actresses like Pam Grier and Deborah Ayorinde leading the cast, fans of the genre are sure to be captivated by the intricate storytelling and terrifying moments that await them.
