SPOILER ALERT! This article reveals elements of the film’s plot and ending.
Directed by Nathaniel Martello-White, In Their Shadow – originally titled The Strays – is inspired by the cinema of Jordan Peele and offers a thriller about social inequalities. The story follows Nev, a privileged mother who sees her everyday life turn into a nightmare when two people start following her everywhere she goes.
Although he thinks he’s hallucinating, Nev quickly realizes that his past, which he’s been trying to forget, is resurfacing. Viewers discover that the two strangers are actually two children abandoned by their mother in her former, much more humble life.
When they discover the now-luxurious daily life of the person once named Cheryl, Carl and Dionne demand responsibility. In the final scene, Nev/Cheryl decides to reproduce the same pattern: to get out of trouble, she once again abandons her four children.
In social networks, this ending, unexpected and quite clever, although not unanimous:
According to the audience, the ending of the film leaves an unfinished taste. However, this sudden turn of events gives the story a surprising and refreshing brutality, turning all the codes of parenthood upside down.
In Their Shadow is available on Netflix.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
