Nope (2022) Movie Review

Jordan Peele’s “Nope” has been one of the most anticipated movies of recent times, with the hype machine building up months before the official release. While details of the movie have been kept under wraps, it is known that Peele has once again pushed the envelope of genre blending and storytelling with his newest creation. In this article, we will examine the film's premise, its cast of characters, and some of the thematic elements it explores.

The marketing campaign for “Nope” has been impressive, with posters of the cast members looking up at the sky, and trailers teasing the potential threat in the film. However, it's always risky when the marketing campaign builds up so much hype that it creates an expectation that the finished product may not meet. This often leads to criticisms on social media and think-pieces that critique the film's shortcomings. However, Jordan Peele is a filmmaker who refuses to cater to the viewer’s pre-ordained expectations, and that is why his movies are so intriguing.

In “Nope,” cinematographer Antlers Holst (Michael Wincott) tells Emerald Haywood (Keke Palmer) that he “makes one movie for them, and one for me.” This statement is a callback to John Cassavetes’ philosophy/excuse for appearing in trash films. The pay allowed him to finance the movies he wanted to create. It seems that Peele has taken this philosophy to heart in “Nope,” as he seems to be making a movie that amuses and pleases himself, rather than the masses.

After the success of “Get Out,” Peele moved towards a hybrid of audience-pleasing and filmmaker's jones with “Us,” a film that was less blatant and required more work on the audience’s part. “Nope” continues this trend and offers a more complex storyline than his previous movies. The film is about three times as messy as “Us,” and there is no equivalent performance to Lupita Nyong’o's dual role, which was unshakably strange and multilayered.

The cast of characters in “Nope” includes Steven Yuen as Jupe, a barker who runs an alien-based carnival of sorts in the same middle of nowhere the Haywoods have their ranch, and Angel (Brandon Perea), a techie specializing in surveillance equipment he sells out of a Best Buy clone called Fry’s. The Haywood’s ancestors were the first Black stuntpeople and animal wranglers in Hollywood, going back to the earliest days of movie making. The focus on being the first to do something is a recurring theme in the film.

In addition, there is a Bible quote in “Nope” that is reminiscent of Peele’s earlier film, “Us.” This time it’s Nahum 3:6, which says “I will pelt you with filth, I will treat you with contempt and make you a spectacle.” There's also a focus on animals, with horses playing a major role in the film. Peele reverses the power dynamic by turning into prey the most dangerous predator of all.

“Nope” is not as good as “Get Out” or “Us,” but it’s definitely Peele’s creepiest movie. Peele remains a master of misdirection, offering fleeting glimpses of something that’s amiss or keeping the audience guessing until the last moment. There’s humor to be had in the minority characters’ reactions to horror, but the director really leans into Hitchcock’s tenet about suspense vs. surprise. The wait for something awful to happen is always worse than when it does.

One of the standout elements of “Nope” is its cinematography, which is lush and dreamlike, creating a haunting atmosphere that seeps into every frame. Antlers Holst’s dedication to getting the perfect shot is evident in every scene, as he uses light and shadow to create a sense of unease that never lets up. The film’s visual language is just as important as its narrative, with every shot conveying information about the story and its characters. From the aerial shots of the carnival and the Haywood ranch to the claustrophobic interiors of the film’s later scenes, “Nope” is a masterclass in visual storytelling.

The film’s themes are also worthy of discussion, exploring issues of identity, family, and the human relationship with nature. Peele has always been interested in exploring the complexities of the Black experience in America, and “Nope” is no exception. The film’s Black characters are not defined by their race, but it is an important part of their identity and the way they navigate the world. Peele also examines the idea of family and how it can be both a source of comfort and a burden. The Haywood family’s history and legacy are central to the film, and the way they grapple with their past and their present is a fascinating exploration of generational trauma.

Finally, “Nope” is a film that rewards multiple viewings, with subtle details and hints hidden throughout its runtime. Peele is a master of foreshadowing and misdirection, and there are several moments in the film that take on new meaning upon a second viewing. It’s a film that invites analysis and interpretation, and one that will continue to reveal new depths upon repeated viewings.

In conclusion, “Nope” may not be Jordan Peele’s best film, but it is a haunting and visually stunning work that explores complex themes and rewards multiple viewings. Peele continues to be one of the most exciting voices in contemporary horror, and “Nope” is a worthy addition to his filmography. If you’re a fan of Peele’s work or just looking for a creepy and thought-provoking film, “Nope” is definitely worth checking out. Just don’t expect to have all the answers by the time the credits roll.