Get Out — Film Review
It has become a tradition over the last couple of years to dump horror genre films in the lean first two months of the year. While most are often forgotten or outright ignored due, in large part, to their laughable premise and huge plot holes, this year has been the exception to the rule. While Rings was a complete flop, Split opened a month ago to rave reviews and box office success grossing over $172 million worldwide to date. Now all the attention turns to the directorial debut of Jordan Peele (Key and Peele).
Get Out tells the story of an interracial couple, Chris (Daniel Kaluuya, Skins, Black Mirror) and Rose (Allison Williams, Girls), as they embark on a weekend trip to introduce Chris to her family. After arriving at the family home we're immediately introduced to Rose's parents played by the talented duo of Bradley Whitford (The West Wing, Cabin in the Woods) and Catherine Keener (Being John Malkovich, Capote) and off the story goes. I won't delve into anything deeper than this due to it being particularly spoiler-ish.
After seeing the film I thought it best to sleep on it to better understand what I'd just seen. And after doing so, I can say that this is one of the most unique genre films I've ever had the pleasure of watching. It is uncomfortable, strange, and most importantly, fantastic. Part Twilight Zone, part Stepford Wives, part social commentary with some horror mixed in for good measure, this is a relevant film that has been long overdue. There is real, tangible tension that builds at a slow burn pace that allows you to soak it all in. Every plot point introduced was excellently crafted and equally executed, something unheard of in this era of fast food storytelling. Visually, it is gorgeous with every shot crafted for the needs of the individual moment.
The acting by the main cast is outstanding and grounded with two notable performances from the second tier cast, Lakeith Stanfield (Short Term 12) as Logan and comedian Lil Rel Howry as Rod. With a film that builds such a sense of impending dread you need something or someone to lighten the mood. Peele, who also penned the script, makes good use of Howry in this role to deliver his brand of self aware comedy that will leaving you in stitches.
As much as I love this film it isn’t perfect. There are a few moments where I felt the paced dragged a bit but at no point did I feel it was detrimental to the overall story. All in all, if this is what we have to look forward to from Jordan Peele as a writer and director we are surely in for some real treats going forward.
🌟🌟🌟🌟 ½ out of five