Released in 2017, Jordan Peele’s directorial debut ‘Get Out’ took the film industry by storm, receiving critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including Best Picture at the Academy Awards. While IT may seem like a typical horror film on the surface, ‘Get Out’ offers a thought-provoking social commentary on race, culture, and identity in contemporary America. In this review essay, we will delve into the deeper themes and messages presented in this groundbreaking masterpiece.
The Plot and Premise
‘Get Out’ follows the story of Chris Washington, a young African American man who visits his white girlfriend’s family estate for the first time. As the weekend progresses, Chris uncovers a series of disturbing discoveries that lead him to a horrifying truth about the family’s intentions. The film’s narrative touches on issues of interracial relationships, microaggressions, and the exploitation of Black bodies, all within the framework of a psychological thriller.
Social Commentary and Satire
One of the most striking aspects of ‘Get Out’ is its biting social commentary and satire. Through the use of horror and humor, Peele masterfully tackles complex issues that are often overlooked or ignored in mainstream media. The film explores the fetishization and objectification of Black individuals, as well as the inherent racism and microaggressions present in seemingly liberal white spaces. In doing so, ‘Get Out’ forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society’s treatment of marginalized communities.
For example, the character of Rose’s father, Dean Armitage, who claims to be a supporter of Jesse Owens and black representation in the Olympics, is later revealed to be a sinister figure with nefarious intentions. This subversion of the “white savior” narrative highlights the hypocrisy and performative allyship often found in privileged circles.
Symbolism and Visual Metaphors
Beyond its narrative and dialogue, ‘Get Out’ employs powerful symbolism and visual metaphors to convey its message. The iconic “sunken place” serves as a representation of the psychological and emotional suppression faced by Black individuals in a society that seeks to silence their voices. Additionally, the use of the color white throughout the film symbolizes the pervasive nature of racism, while the hypnotic teacup scene embodies the loss of agency and autonomy experienced by marginalized groups.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, ‘Get Out’ sparked widespread discussions and debates about its themes and significance. Audiences and critics alike praised the film for its bold and unapologetic approach to addressing racial issues, with many considering IT a cultural touchstone for the modern era. Peele’s success with ‘Get Out’ also paved the way for more diverse storytelling in Hollywood, leading to increased representation and opportunities for marginalized voices in the industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘Get Out’ stands as a powerful and relevant work of cinema that transcends the horror genre. Jordan Peele’s exploration of race, identity, and social dynamics offers a thought-provoking commentary that forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we live in. Through its compelling narrative, striking visuals, and unflinching satire, ‘Get Out’ has solidified its place as a groundbreaking masterpiece that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
FAQs
1. Is ‘Get Out’ a horror film or a social commentary?
‘Get Out’ can be seen as both a horror film and a social commentary. While IT employs the conventions of the horror genre to deliver its narrative, the film’s underlying themes and messages serve as a potent form of social commentary on race and culture.
2. How does ‘Get Out’ address issues of race and identity?
The film delves into the complexities of interracial relationships, microaggressions, and the exploitation of Black bodies. IT uses symbolism, satire, and visual metaphors to convey the psychological and emotional experiences of marginalized individuals in contemporary society.
3. What impact did ‘Get Out’ have on the film industry?
‘Get Out’ paved the way for more diverse storytelling in Hollywood and opened doors for marginalized voices in the industry. IT sparked conversations about representation and diversity, leading to increased opportunities for underrepresented creators.
