Get Out

Get Out is a 2017 psychological horror film that marks the directorial debut of Jordan Peele, who also wrote and produced the film. It stars Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Lil Rel Howery, LaKeith Stanfield, Bradley Whitford, Caleb Landry Jones, Stephen Root, Catherine Keener, and Betty Gabriel.

The film follows Chris Washington, a young Black photographer, who visits the family of his white girlfriend, Rose Armitage. During his visit, Chris encounters unsettling behaviors from the family and their Black servants, eventually uncovering dark secrets that reveal the true nature of Rose’s family.

Principal photography took place in Fairhope, Alabama, and the entire film was shot over 23 days. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on 23 January 2017 and was released in U.S. theaters on 24 February 2017. The film received critical acclaim for its screenplay, direction, and social commentary, grossing over $255 million worldwide on a $4.5 million budget, making it one of the most profitable films of the year.

Critics praised Get Out for its unique blend of horror and humor, with many considering it a commentary on race relations in America. The film challenges the perception of racism by depicting the horrors within a seemingly progressive, liberal family. It received numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Peele at the 90th Academy Awards, where it was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Kaluuya.

In the film's opening, a Black man is abducted at night, setting the stage for the chilling events that unfold. Following this, Chris is drawn into an uncomfortable family gathering filled with awkward conversations and eerie interactions. The situation escalates when Chris becomes the target of a sinister plan involving his body and mind.

One pivotal scene involves Missy Armitage, Rose’s mother, hypnotizing Chris under the pretense of helping him quit smoking. She uses the sound of a spoon stirring in a teacup as a trigger, leading Chris into a trance where he experiences a dark psychological space referred to as the “sunken place.” This concept becomes a central theme throughout the film, representing a loss of agency and control.

As the story progresses, Chris discovers that Rose’s family has a disturbing method of obtaining the physical attributes they desire by transplanting the brains of their wealthy friends into other bodies, particularly those of Black individuals. This horrifying revelation is juxtaposed with Chris's attempts to escape, culminating in a tense confrontation with Rose and her family.

The film's score, composed by Michael Abels, enhances the unsettling atmosphere, featuring distinct musical references that resonate with the film's themes. The soundtrack includes tracks such as Childish Gambino's "Redbone," which plays during a crucial moment in the film, further emphasizing the tension and emotional stakes.

Overall, Get Out has been hailed as a groundbreaking film that not only entertains but also provokes thought about race and societal issues. It has been recognized as one of the best films of the 21st century and continues to influence discussions around horror films and their potential to address complex themes.

For more details, you can check the film's page on Wikipedia.