Review: ‘Get out’ stays woke

Chad Smith, Reporter

When picturing examples of horror movies, images of ghosts and demons usually come to mind. However, when it comes to the movie “Get Out,” the real terror comes to those who are of least suspicion. This movie twists the horror genre with comedy and satire, resulting in an unbelievably realistic, “woke” commentary on racial relations in America, the likes of which have never been seen before.

The film centers around the character of Chris, who is going to meet the parents of his affluent girlfriend, Rose. During his stay, Chris uncovers a dark family secret, which could alter his life forever.

“Get Out” is the directorial debut of Jordan Peele, who has previously starred on the comedy sketch show “Key and Peele.” While he has mostly worked in the realm of comedy, this movie serves as a stark transition for him into mostly uncharted territory.

As a new director, Peele does an incredible job presenting the movie’s unique style and cinematography. He masterfully constructs scenes that build awkward tension and drives the plot, while simultaneously revealing undertones of racial tensions as well.

A great example of this is a scene when Chris attends a party with Rose’s family. While making their rounds visiting different family members, each one makes peculiar comments about Chris’ race. This not only serves to foreshadow certain plot elements later in the movie, but also provides commentary on the way African-Americans are made to feel different in everyday situations.

Characters are also a key part of the film’s greatness. In Chris, there is finally a horror movie character with half a brain. In Rose, her character development is so unexpected, yet believable. Finally, there is the character of Rod, who is a TSA agent and Chris’ friend. He offers dramatic irony from within the movie, following the plot of his friend’s trip just as the audience does, not without some comic relief, of course.

Another notable addition to the movie worth mentioning is the use of the song “Redbone” by Childish Gambino. The lyrics “stay woke” embody the movie’s entire premise, one of social awareness during a time of turbulent race relations in America.

Overall, “Get Out” does a fantastic job accomplishing what it sets out to do, displaying racial tensions in a way that has never been done before, revealing a truth for not only the characters, but for society as well.

 

When picturing examples of horror movies, images of ghosts and demons usually come to mind. However, when it comes to the movie “Get Out,” the real terror comes to those who are of least suspicion. This movie twists the horror genre with comedy and satire, resulting in an unbelievably realistic, “woke” commentary on racial relations in America, the likes of which have never been seen before.

The film centers around the character of Chris, who is going to meet the parents of his affluent girlfriend, Rose. During his stay, Chris uncovers a dark family secret, which could alter his life forever.

“Get Out” is the directorial debut of Jordan Peele, who has previously starred on the comedy sketch show “Key and Peele.” As a new director, Peele does an incredible job presenting the movie’s unique style and cinematography. He masterfully constructs scenes that build awkward tension and drives the plot, while simultaneously revealing undertones of racial tensions as well.

A great example of this is a scene when Chris attends a party with Rose’s family. While making their rounds visiting different family members, each one makes peculiar comments about Chris’ race. This not only serves to foreshadow certain plot elements later in the movie, but also provides commentary on the way African-Americans are made to feel different in everyday situations.

Another notable addition to the movie worth mentioning is the use of the song “Redbone” by Childish Gambino. The lyrics “stay woke” embody the movie’s entire premise, one of social awareness during a time of turbulent race relations in America.