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Them That Follow

Them That Follow

Representation Score

4.5/10

Fair

2019

R

Director

Britt Poulton, Dan Madison Savage

Runtime

98 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film serves as a character-driven exploration of the conflict between individual choice and established traditions. It effectively questions the sanctity of a community by highlighting the psychological toll of religious dogma. Though the narrative lacks broad racial or LGBTQ+ representation, it achieves depth by critiquing patriarchal control. The portrayal of the church as an oppressive force provides a strong framework for systemic critique. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in presenting traditional family and community structures as sites of systemic tension and personal struggle rather than idealized models.

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Category Breakdown

Does Them That Follow have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film examines a romantic relationship that challenges traditional religious rules, involving a person who doesn't follow the faith. Although the main plot revolves around a heterosexual pregnancy, it highlights the tension between personal desires and societal expectations.

How does Them That Follow portray gender?

Good

The story centers on Mara's fight for her own body against strict rules set by men. A powerful woman in charge adds layers of complex female dynamics within the community.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Them That Follow?

Limited

Set in a small Appalachian Pentecostal community, the film focuses on a group with similar backgrounds. It emphasizes regional and religious identity over differences in race or ethnicity.

How does Them That Follow represent religion and culture?

Good

The film offers a nuanced look at organized religion and community leadership. It portrays practices like snake handling and mandatory checks as sources of trauma and social pressure.

Does Them That Follow include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no specific evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this work.

Present on Screen

  • Provides a nuanced critique of organized religion and community leadership.
  • Explores complex female dynamics through the presence of a strong woman.
  • Challenges patriarchal control by focusing on themes of bodily autonomy.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks significant racial and ethnic diversity within the community.
  • Offers limited representation of LGBTQ+ identities.
  • Provides no evidence of disability representation.

Official Synopsis

A Pentecostal pastor, Lemuel Childs, and his believers handle venomous snakes to prove themselves before God. Lemuel’s daughter, Mara holds a secret that threatens to tear the church apart: her romantic past with a nonbeliever, Augie. As Mara’s wedding to a devoted follower looms, she must decide whether or not to trust the steely matriarch of their community, Hope, with her heart and life at stake.

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