There’s an exciting horror film trapped beneath “They/Them,” but everyone involved refused to let it out.
Horror remains the best platform to entertain while sending a message. It’s not a slam-dunk formula, though. Too many filmmakers focus so hard on the latter they forget they’re making a genre film.
Think “Antebellum” and the new “Candyman” for Exhibits A and B.
“They/Them” counts as Exhibits C, D, E and F. Maybe G-Z, too.
Kevin Bacon gives it his all as Owen Whistler, the head of a gay conversion camp. Except Owen’s heart doesn’t seem to be in it from the jump. His opening scene welcoming the gay, bisexual and trans campers is like something out of a GLAAD pamphlet.
He speaks of love, acceptance and safe spaces. No hate, fear or anger. Sounds like...