Get Out

(Universe Pictures; Linked from Genre November 27, 2017)
(Originally posted on PatPostsAboutFilm.tumblr.com March 7, 2018)

Release Date: February 24, 2017
Runtime: 1hr 44m
Director: Jordan Peele

It took over a year until I finally watched this film. Unlike most hype built around theatrical releases, this was a film I truly wanted to watch in a theater. No open-minded soul would go to the theater with me, so at home I sat broken-hearted.

A year later, I began watching several horror movies to aid me in a writing project, and here I am after just watching Get Out. If you want to watch a movie where you root for a strong protagonist, watch this movie. If you want cheap jump scares, one-dimensional characters, and unsatisfying plot points, please watch Mama or The Conjuring. Good news, I hear The Nun is coming out soon!

Unlike most modern horror films, the layers of genre in this film are apparent. Comedy comes about through dialogue, situation, and almost simply, the plot itself. However, the thriller aspect dominates the audience’s perception of the film to the point that you really hope something good happens at the end. 

The film is also provocative in relaying stereotypes and placing people of color in an institutionally racist setting. In Jordan Peele’s directorial debut, he establishes a satirical horror film that ends up being both a political statement and an easily enjoyable film for everyone. Then there’s protagonist Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya), the only protagonist in any horror film or setting that I rooted for from beginning to end. 

Without giving too much away, this film is a modern breath of fresh air from typical horror conventions. We don’t have boogeymen, or people wearing masks. Instead, the darkest characters are everyday unassuming people, almost a Scooby-Doo-esque message. If you are uncomfortable watching the film, give it a chance, and don’t get out.

5/5