Get out and go see “Get Out,” the hilarious new mystery/horror film written and directed by Jordan Peele of the famed dynamic comedy duo Key and Peele. Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) who is African-American will meet his Caucasian girlfriend’s (Allison Williams as Rose) parents for the first time. He expects some racial issues, but what he discovers is much more than that! It’s a Twilight Zone meets “The Stepford Wives” thriller and a touch of “Trainspotting” tripping that will make you jump, scream, and laugh! “Get Out” is total fun, particularly as we look at our world through a different racial lens right now.
The opening scene plunges us right into the core of the movie as we see a black man (LaKeith Stanfield) walking in an unfamiliar neighborhood, attempting to find an address. He’s out of place, muttering nervous and funny comments as a car pulls up along side of him. BAM! He’s abducted. Cut to the sweet couple, Rose and Chris, preparing for a trip.
Chris is hesitant about visiting Rose’s parents, but she assures him that they aren’t at all racist. In fact, she says they would have voted for Obama for a third time if they could have. Best buddy and TSA Agent Rod Williams (LilRel Howery) doggie-sits while the two go off and have their adventure.
The story sets the viewers up to see and question what we observe through Chris’ eyes. The tension increases with each ticking moment, delving more deeply into the bizarre behaviors of the black people who just happen to be overly happy working for this family and the rich white people whose comments are utterly inappropriate, but realistically hilarious! The tables are turned with the portrayal of white stereotypes which gives us a truly refreshing perspective in this off the wall story.
“Get Out” has an all-star cast and while you might not immediately recognize Kaluuya and Williams, you will after this movie. Kaluuya shines as the lead, giving us a memorable performance and creating a connection with the audience to truly root for him. Williams gives us the All-American girl next door performance and the two of them together are a perfect match. Whitford and Keener are brilliant as the loving and manipulative parents. I can’t tell you any more about them as that would ruin the fun of discovery. Suffice it to say, they are both stellar and you’ll stir your tea with a new understanding. But it’s LilRel Howery that steals the comedic show in “Get Out.” As the TSA Agent and best friend, he embodies the cop-wanna-be persona with the innocence of protecting his best friend.
“Get Out” is a unique film, blending genres of comedy, horror, mystery, and thriller. Accent on the comedy! When you’re not laughing, you’re gasping and while there are some rather gruesome parts, they are justified in the storyline. Peele is no new-comer to writing and now he has proven himself in the director’s chair with “Get Out,” his directorial debut.
“Get Out” is total escapism and fun in a wonderfully mind-bending, hilarious, and thrilling story that revolves around racism. To pull off that combination is absolutely extraordinary.
Please remember that this is rated R for some extreme violence!
3 1/2 Stars