How Jordan Peele redefined horror in Get Out, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

When Get Out burst onto the cinematic scene in 2017, it wasn’t just another addition to the horror genre—it was a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Jordan Peele in his directorial debut, the film seamlessly blended psychological terror with biting social commentary, leaving audiences both enthralled and unsettled. As the movie approaches its [insert number] anniversary, it’s worth delving into how “Get Out” redefined horror and sparked vital conversations about race and identity.

Jordan Peele, previously known for his comedic genius in Key & Peele, took a bold leap into horror with Get Out. While some were skeptical about a comedian helming a horror film, Peele’s background in sketch comedy proved invaluable. His ability to observe, satirize, and critique societal norms translated seamlessly into crafting a narrative that was as thought-provoking as it was terrifying.

In an interview, Peele remarked, “The best way to enter the conversation about race is through art.” This philosophy is palpable throughout Get Out, where he uses the horror framework to dissect and expose the insidious nature of racism in modern America.

At its core, Get Out tells the story of Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya), a young Black photographer, who embarks on a weekend trip to meet the family of his white girlfriend, Rose Armitage (Allison Williams). The Armitages, residing in an affluent suburb, exude a veneer of progressive liberalism. Yet, as the weekend unfolds, a series of unsettling events hints at a sinister underbelly.

The film masterfully employs discomfort and suspense, leading viewers through a labyrinth of microaggressions and overt threats. From the Armitages’ unsettling fixation on Chris’s physical attributes to the eerie behavior of their Black housekeepers, the narrative crescendoes into a chilling revelation.

One of the most haunting metaphors in Get Out is the Sunken Place. Introduced during a hypnosis scene, Chris finds himself trapped in a void where he can see and hear the world but is powerless to interact. This imagery poignantly captures the feeling of helplessness and marginalization experienced by many Black individuals.

Peele explained, “The Sunken Place means we’re marginalized. No matter how hard we scream, the system silences us.” This metaphor resonated deeply, transcending the film to become a symbol in broader societal discussions about race and oppression.

Get Out was not just a critical darling but also a box office titan. Produced on a modest budget of $4.5 million, it grossed over $255 million worldwide. Rotten Tomatoes awarded it a rare 98% approval rating, with critics lauding its originality, performances, and thematic depth.

The film’s success culminated at the 90th Academy Awards, where it garnered four nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Jordan Peele made history by winning Best Original Screenplay, becoming the first Black writer to achieve this feat.

Beyond its accolades, Get Out revitalized the horror genre. It paved the way for a new wave of social horror films that use the genre to tackle pressing societal issues. Movies like Us (also directed by Peele) and Candyman (2021) owe a debt to Get Out for expanding the horizons of what horror can encapsulate.

Moreover, the film inspired a generation of filmmakers to intertwine entertainment with commentary, proving that audiences are hungry for narratives that challenge and provoke thought.

Perhaps the most enduring legacy of Get Out is its imprint on cultural dialogues. Phrases like “I would have voted for Obama a third time” became shorthand for performative allyship, while the “Sunken Place” emerged as a metaphor in discussions about racial dynamics.

In academic circles, the film is dissected for its nuanced portrayal of systemic racism, microaggressions, and the commodification of Black bodies. It serves as a testament to cinema’s power to reflect and influence societal introspection.

Get Out transcended its genre to become a landmark in cinematic history. Through its ingenious blend of horror and social critique, it held up a mirror to society, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. As time progresses, its relevance only deepens, cementing its status as not just a film, but a movement.