Written 8 years ago Get Out, Jordan Peele’s first feature film where he does double duty as the writer and director, follows the story of a black photographer (Daniel Kaluuya) and his white girlfriend (Allison Williams) and a weekend trip to meet her wealthy parents at their remote estate for the first time. Upon arrival, Chris is greeted by Rose’s politically correct parents and zombie-like, black working staff that leaves him with a sense of foreboding he can’t quite figure out. In order to get through the weekend, Chris will learn more about a segment of society that could cost him his life. Or at least the life as he knew it.
A horror film wrapped in social commentary, Get Out expertly presents a snap shot of the subtlety of racism that exists but rarely highlighted. Peele casts the spotlight on the “I have a black friend at work” or the “You’re so articulate” or the “You’re not like…” stereotype purveyors that people of color experience on a near daily basis.
The talented cast, lead by Kaluuya, expertly gives the audience a bird’s eye view of both sides of social interaction without over performing or shying away. From Chris’ knowing when not to speak too much to Rose’s “realization” that the face racism isn’t always crosses burning in the front yard to Lil Rel Howery (Rod) portrayal as that needed friend that reminds us to be on our guard when we are around older mixed company.
Get Out‘s gradually builds on horror and fear until the very end and the final scenes will leave your breathless.
BSO Grade: A
To see red carpet interviews with Jordan Peele, Daniel Kaluuya, Bradley Whitford, Lil Rel Howery and more, clip the page.
