'Get Out': There Is No Rose Without Thorns

Jordan Peele’s gripping directorial debut is not as gory as the other horror films I’ve seen. However, that did not stop it from making my heart leap continuously in my chest. The intro of this satirical horror-thriller had me chuckling at the humour that was injected into the film, misleading me about the terror that was in store. In Peele’s defence, he did try to subtly warn me with the lyrics of Childish Gambino’s song, Redbone, but I was too busy singing to make the connection.

Get Out is a low budget film that had a budget of approximately 4.5 million dollars. Now, I don’t know about you guys, but I typically find low-budget horror movies to be cringeworthy. However, Blumhouse Productions is known for producing low-budget hitmakers on the horror movie scene, including Paranormal Activity and Insidious. It is safe to say that Get Out can be added to the list having grossed 255.5 million dollars worldwide and being listed as one of the most profitable movies of 2017. Though most of the movie was filmed in one location, which might be because of the limited budget, the plot did not come across as mundane, nor was it anticlimactic. Instead, the gradual well-timed build-up and suspense intensified by the eerie and spine-chilling soundtrack had me glued to the screen.

The social commentary of this critically acclaimed film garnered a considerable amount of attention. However, it may be received differently based on the audience. Why? Because the film touches on facets of racism both in the contemporary and slavery eras, which is sure to ruffle some feathers. Daniel Kaluuya, who plays the protagonist, Chris, an African American photographer, goes on a weekend getaway with his Caucasian girlfriend to meet her parents for the first time. His girlfriend, Rose, who is portrayed by Allison Williams, won a few brownie points from me early in the film as she defends her black man on many counts. It seemed like the ideal scenario of someone using their white privilege and allying with their racialized counterparts. But much to my dismay, and Chris’, Rose was leading him into a very dark abyss unbeknownst to him. Well, in this case, into the sunken place.

Coincidentally, the weekend of their visit is the same weekend that the family decides to host an annual party for the liberal elites in their circle. This annual tradition was started by Rose's grandfather, Roman, who is played by Richard Herd. The attendees all seem to have a strange interest in Chris and openly fetishize his features, with one even saying “black is in fashion” *shudders*. Regardless, Chris continues to make his rounds and later meets Logan, which assuages his discomfort. Finally, another black person who isn’t blindly loyal to the Armitage family. Chris is thrilled to see another brother in this setting, but his suspicions heighten after observing Logan’s questionable mannerisms and rightfully so. This may be my black perspective, but I know I would get out of that house immediately if I were in Chris’ shoe.

Lakeith Stanfield has two brief appearances in the film as Andre in the beginning and later as Logan. Both scenes are pivotal as one sets the tone for the film, and the other confirms what everyone is thinking. Something is, in fact, wrong! These folks aren’t interested in Chris’ wit and charm; they are interested in much more. And like the black mould they think he is, they ensnare him to carry out their master plan while attempting to honour the legacy of Roman’s empire.

Having spent over an hour being on edge waiting to see if Chris’ fate ends badly, I was pleased with the way the plot unfolded. But I will leave it up to you to discover that tidbit yourself and let me know if you share the same sentiment. On that note, this review is not complete without an honourable mention for Lil Rey Howery who plays Rod, the seemingly delusional ride or die friend. However, his implausible claims and genuine concern for his friend, Chris, leads to an ending that even in the last seconds will probably have you waiting for another shoe to drop. Instead, the outcome will make you breathe a sigh of relief, or if you’re like me, you will scream “yaaaaaaas” at the screen!

Overall, this movie was a harmonious blend of thought-provoking satire and horror that pushes the boundaries. I would rate it 9 out of 10 without hesitation, and I hope to see more films utilising this out of the box approach.

From here on out, every time I hear the clink of a spoon on a teacup, I will probably run like my life depends on it. After all, the mind is a terrible thing to waste, and I would hate for mine to be imprisoned in the sunken place.