Get Out: Review

With a shockingly high 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Get Out has got to be the most anticipated horror of the year.

The story follows a black male protagonist, Chris (played by Daniel Kaluuya of Black Mirror), who goes to visit his white girlfriend’s family for the first time, only to realise that there is something rather sinister lurking behind their warm, welcoming hugs.

The film was written and directed by Jordan Peele, co-star of Comedy Central’s Key and Peele. Peele’s racial background brings a refreshing outlook on race in modern horror films. The lead role of Chris is excellently brought to life and very identifiable with. One feels what he feels and reacts how he reacts almost subconsciously. This is an unusual perspective in horror movies. A strong black leading character is out of the ordinary; which adds to the sense that this is not your run of the mill horror flick, but something altogether more powerful.

Peele originally came to prominence in the comedy sketch show Key & Peele //Twitter

The opening scene, which was shot in one take, is one of shocking violence which contrasts with cheerful music and the bright blue Get Out title; it becomes apparent from the offset that this film isn’t like anything you’ve ever seen before. Every line and every action carries a subtle and one can never assume innocence.

In one particular scene at an annual family party, Chris gets to meet all the neighbours, friends and extended family of this quiet suburban neighbourhood. Peele had said previously that he often gets uncomfortable when he finds himself the only black person in a group of white people and this scene screams discomfort, unease and subtle racial tension.

The community’s populations attempt to connect, rather insincerely, with Chris through the colour of his skin  – “I love Obama, I’d vote for Obama a third time if I could.” Their distinct lack of conviction is so overwhelming that the sense of awkwardness makes your skin crawl.

There is a constant boundary push between the racial commentary and satirical edge. The comic relief in this film is refreshing. Just as the horror seems to reach it’s climax, the comedic aspect lures the audience into a false sense of ease and is used as an important and a clever tool to deal with the themes at play.

Brilliant, smart, blood-curdling – Get Out is a must see for any thrill seeking horror junkie.