“They Live in the Grey” (also known as “The Uncanny“) is a captivating supernatural thriller that lives up to its intriguing name. Delving into the mysterious realm between relationships frozen in time during challenging periods and the ethereal spirits caught between worlds. This film presents a compelling narrative that defies simplistic explanations. Thought-provoking and multi-layered, They Live in the Grey immerses viewers in the profound emotions arising from loss. Released on February 17, 2022, and titled The Uncanny in the UK, this film is now available for streaming on the Shudder platform.

Narratively They Live in the Grey, introduces us to Clair, a child-appointed protective services officer. As the story unfolds, her poignant journey follows the heartbreaking loss of her son. While delving into a distressing child abuse case, Clair soon discovers that the family she is investigating is entangled in a web of complexities far beyond her initial expectations. Undeterred, she becomes acutely aware of a malevolent presence permeating the household. Determined to uncover the truth and protect young Sophie, Clair bravely confronts a series of chilling encounters. Vengeful spirits, persistently attempt to connect with her. With each supernatural challenge she faces, it becomes evident that Clair’s uncanny ability to navigate the spectral realm is a skill she exercises with unwavering resolve.

What Do Ghosts Want?

If you are a fan of films like “The Conjuring” or TV shows like “The Dead Files”, They Live in the Grey could be described as a precursor to those sorts of psychic investigator-type stories. In this film, Claire knows she sees ghosts. However, she is simply afraid. She doesn’t know what they want and lives her life terrified. Over the course of the runtime, The Vang Brothers carefully eke out the different forms of what happens when we lose something. They also show this premise from several angles. For the family she is investigating, there is a marital affair lurking in the background. Between Claire and her husband, there is a wall between them. Neither knows how to deal with their pain. And in other examples, there are ghosts who are the victims of violent crime and abandonment and simply don’t know how to move on.

If you are looking for a scary movie, They Live in the Grey might not scratch that itch. Despite having numerous frightening visuals that are creatively executed, there is nothing overtly creepy about this movie. Those sensitive to jump scares might even feel a little ripped off. There is an overreliance on loud noises and scores versus creating tension. That’s something I usually prefer in my supernatural haunting films.

Scary Ghost Movies

Overall, I found plenty to like about the film but the pacing is really slow without a lot of payoffs. The grand finale had some unexpected details to throw into the mix but overall, was a little subdued. I could see They Live in the Grey easily stretching out to a sequel or horror franchise but have heard nothing about that being the case.

They Live in the Grey is rated

3 ghosts sure do enjoy breaking bones out of 5

Mother of Movies score

Written and directed by brothers Burlee Vang and Abel Vang (The Tigers Child.)
Cast for They Live in the Grey: Michelle Krusiec (Hollywood), Ken Kirby (GoodTrouble, Dynasty.) In addition, Ellen Wroe (For All Mankind, Shameless), Madelyn Grace (Don’t Breathe 2)