Web Series Wednesday – These Thems

By: Spring Marie Cullen

WHAT? These Thems

BY: Wylder Womyn Productions

WHY SHOULD I WATCH?

These Thems is a queer comedy web series that follows the lives of four friends in the big city. Recently out lesbian Gretchen (Gretchen Wylder) is coming to terms with her new sexuality. Thankfully, she has the help of new friend Vero (Victoria Ortiz), a nonbinary educator, with enough patience to calmly explain the intricacies of pronouns and gender binary to clueless cishets. Add in the assistance of lovesick roommate Kevin (Nick Park) and Gretchen is realizing things about herself at age thirty that she was never aware of before. Asher (Shaan Dasani), a transman in the closet, rounds out the friend group.

The series is funny and smart, telling an important story through a perfectly constructed comedic lens. What really sets the show apart is the group of people working behind the scenes. All queer characters in the series are portrayed by actual LGBT+ identifying actors and the filmmaking crew behind the scenes were also queer identifying and/or people of color. It showcases not only lesser talked about issues, but brings to light the nuances of these themes that only a properly educated staff could.

These Thems is a testament to the brilliance that can be accomplished when representation, both on screen and behind it, is taken seriously. Everything from gender identity to acceptance and sexual empowerment to self-expression is brought to light. And while in the same community, these things affect each character with unique identities in very different ways. It never seems like it’s making fun of any group, as these topics are handled with care. Yet another reason why hearing these stories from these voices is so crucial.

The story of These Thems is powerful due in large part to the cast, who play off each other extremely well. The chemistry feels real and the budding friendship between the lost Gretchen and well-informed Vero is the anchor. It really feels like Vero’s taking Gretchen under their wing and teaching her about a world her family tried to hide. Gretchen’s confusion and hesitation are palpable and if not for Wylder’s charming and likable performance, it wouldn’t have worked so well.

These Thems will have its East Coast Premiere at New York’s LGBTQ Film Festival NewFest on October 25th. A question and answer segment will follow and I encourage anyone planning on attending to make sure they get a chance to see this series in all its glory.

WHERE CAN I WATCH? TBA

Follow on Social Media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/these_thems

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/these_thems/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheseThems/