They Wait

They Wait is a chilling supernatural thriller/horror film that was released in 2007. Directed by Ernie Barbarash, the film features performances by acclaimed actress Jaime King, known for her roles in films such as Sin City and Pearl Harbor, and Terry Chen and Pei-Pei Cheng, who have both carved out successful careers in the world of television and film. They Wait exposes audiences to a gripping and mysterious tale tightly-knit with cultural superstitions and eerie ghost stories.

The film is set against the backdrop of North America's old Chinatown in Vancouver, Canada. It integrates elements of Chinese folklore and traditional beliefs, creating a juxtaposition of Eastern superstition and Western pragmatism. The story revolves around Chinese traditions, specifically the Ghost Month, an actual month-long observance in the Chinese lunar calendar when it's believed that the gates of Hell are opened, releasing spirits to roam the Earth.

King's character is Sarah, a thoroughly modern woman with little belief or interest in old-world superstitions. Although of Western origin, she is married to Jason (realized by Terry Chen), whose Chinese family holds steadfastly to their traditional beliefs and customs. As a result, Sarah finds herself immersed in a world of ancient rites and strange customs.

The story takes off when the couple along with their six-year-old son, Sammy, return to Jason's family in Vancouver to pay last respects to Jason's uncle, who died mysteriously. In the midst of all the grief and customary rituals, Sammy falls ill. As doctors struggle to find a medical answer to Sammy's declining health, Sarah experiences ominous sensations and strange visions that lead her to believe that something supernatural is causing Sammy's illness.

Sarah turns to Jason's elderly Aunt Mei (Pei-Pei Cheng), a woman deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and folklore, for help. Mei introduces Sarah to ancient rituals and guides her on a suspenseful journey as Sarah struggles to understand the balance between the physical and spiritual world. Now Sarah must navigate through a world of mystic mediums, deceptive apparitions, and vengeful spirits, in hopes of saving her son.

They Wait innovatively uses the horror genre to illustrate the culture clash and ensuing tension when East meets West. Sarah's skepticism towards traditional Chinese beliefs and her subsequent acceptance to use those very traditions to try and save her son offers a multi-faceted exploration of how familial love can overcome cultural barriers. It is a running theme throughout the movie that highlights the universal human emotion of protecting one's offspring, regardless of cultural disparity.

Jaime King’s performance as the disoriented, panicked yet determined mother is gripping, drawing the audience into her fear and urgency. Terry Chen and Pei-Pei Cheng also offer strong performances, depicting characters that are deeply enmeshed in their cultural heritage and hold to the tradition they believe in, despite western skepticism.

They Wait stands out as a horror movie due to its intricate narrative weaved with Chinese mythology, making this more than a standard supernatural thriller. The combination of ancient Chinese traditions and western skepticism creates a haunting atmosphere that amplifies the suspense of the plot. Moreover, the film interestingly uses horror elements not merely as scare tactics but as a mechanism to explore cross-cultural encounters and the consequences of these encounters when familial bonds are at stake.

The cinematography also adds another layer to the story, with low-light scenes and appropriate use of shadows that succeed in enhancing the eerie ambiance of the film. The sporadic but intelligent use of special effects portrays the supernatural elements more believably, adding to the chilling effect.

In conclusion, They Wait is a fascinating blend of horror, cultural exploration, and a touching story about the lengths a mother will go to protect her child. Rich with Chinese culture and mythology, it draws viewers in with its unique story and well-executed suspense. For those who enjoy cross-cultural movies, supernatural thrillers, and gripping narratives, They Wait is one movie that should not be missed.