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It's funny. It's tense. It's thought provoking. It's perfectly paced. It's unique and fresh. It's lead man steals the show.
I could go on and on.
There's a reason this film holds a crazy 99% on Rotten Tomatoes. Known for his sketch comedy writing, Jordan Peele's debut film will no doubt set a standard for both the genre and for other new directors releasing their first feature length films. While it may technically be under the "Horror" genre, Get Out feels more like a psycho-thriller comedy. Perfectly balancing all three aforementioned genres, Peele's writing and direction stand out and impress especially when holding the knowledge that this is directorial debut. Amazing.
Following an African-American man who is set to meet his white girlfriend's parents at their estate for the weekend, protagonist Chris Washington notices some strange on goings on at the Armitage home and at first reads their over-accommodating behavior towards him as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter's interracial relationship. As the weekend progresses, disturbing events lead to a truth that's mind blowing for both Chris and the audience.
That's the basic premise. I won't say anything more about the story, but newcomer David Kaluuya gave one of the best performances in recent memory. I don't normally attribute out-of-this-world acting with the horror genre, and whether or not I'm right to think that, Kaluuya's character Chris Washington was complex and interesting, creating one of the most memorable protagonists in recent memory. A man you wanted to root for and so desperately want to see succeed, Kaluuya (like the film as a whole) by the end leaves you wanting more.
Get Out star David Kaluuya has what it takes and more in this thriller film, stealing the show on multiple cases
Luckily for Kaluuya, there was a very convincing supporting cast for him to work with. Allison Williams (Girls), Bradley Whitford (West Wing), Catherine Keener (Capote), and Caleb Landry Jones (X-Men: First Class) together portray the Armitage family. They were well played and there's not much more to say with their purpose being for the story and Chris's character arc.
The music was phenomenal, ironically because of it's lack of use. Rarely is there music in the background. Just quietness as Chris uncovers more and more with "bangs" of string instruments here and there in the jumpy scenes. Somehow it's lack of use made it's presence that much bigger when it was used, and the score itself was perfect for the story that was being told adding to the tense scenes and moments.
While there is action and violence, the film tones it down compared to the typical horror/thriller. Instead, it goes for a witty script full of great dialogue, character depth, and comedic timing that releases the tense moments that might otherwise have been too much without funny moments sprinkled throughout.
Bradley Whitford (left) and Catherine Keener (right) as Dean and Missy Armitage.
While there is comedy and suspense, the film doesn't lack in terms of topics and themes that are brought up to the surface of the story. Themes of racial equality and human purpose are inserted throughout, giving the mind something to chew on while Chris reminds us of the human spirit and the will to live no matter the circumstances.
The pace of the film was so enjoyable. I find that great movies can suffer from even a little poorly done pacing. This film does not. It perfectly unwinds the story and the film's run time seems almost too short, making you wish it wasn't over just yet.
In the end, this film has few flaws with only one or two inconsistencies that many won't even notice and don't in any way taint the film. Perfectly blending comedy with thriller like suspense, Jordan Peele and David Kaluuya have earned my respect and will no doubt see more work after this film. Earning $117 million on a $4.5 million budget so far, Peele has become the first black writer-director to earn over $100 million on their debut film.
Unless another 10 films blow me away, Get Out along with my other 2017 favorite right now, Logan, will no doubt be fighting it out for top spots on my end of the year rankings.
And as for Jordan Peele. He truly did earn it.
Final Grade: 10/10
