Get Out, directed by Jordan Peele, is a significant film that has contributed to the emergence of allegorical horror - a genre that delivers political and social messages through thought-provoking allegories. The movie stands out by using horror cinema to address complex issues in modern society, particularly race relations. The following sections will break down the screenplay of Get Out and analyze its incisive commentary on contemporary race relations in the United States.
Characters
- Chris Washington: A black photographer who reluctantly accompanies his white girlfriend, Rose Armitage, to meet her parents. Chris is charming and tries to be polite but harbors guilt over his mother’s death in a hit-and-run accident.
- Rose Armitage: Chris’s girlfriend, who presents herself as modern and aware of the racism Chris faces. She is a serial dater of exclusively black people and uses this to lure them back to the Armitage household.
- Dean and Missy Armitage: Rose’s parents, who initially appear friendly and welcoming, but harbor dark secrets and fetishize black people’s bodies.
- Jeremy Armitage: Rose’s brother, who shares the family’s fascination with black people’s physical attributes.
- Georgina and Walter: The Armitage family’s black housekeeper and groundskeeper, who display strange behavior throughout the film.
The Sunken Place
The Sunken Place is a central concept in Get Out, representing the dark void where the consciousness of the abducted black people gets trapped after their bodies are taken over by the Armitage family. In this metaphorical space, they can only watch what their bodies are doing without being able to control their actions.
Modern Race Relations in the Film
Get Out addresses modern race relations by showcasing how progressive white people can fetishize the black experience and engage in a more subtle form of racism compared to overtly racist right-wing counterparts. The Armitage family represents this progressive racism, as they actively abduct and imprison black people to transplant their consciousness into the bodies of white family members.
The Role of Allegory in Get Out
Allegory is a powerful tool in Get Out, allowing the film to tackle complex issues in modern society. By using horror and suspense elements, the movie effectively conveys the fear and helplessness experienced by marginalized communities. The allegory in Get Out also encourages viewers to reflect on their own biases and prejudices, promoting greater self-awareness and understanding of the impact of racial fetishization.
Impact and Legacy of Get Out
Get Out has had a significant impact on contemporary horror cinema and the broader cultural landscape. The film has inspired a new generation of allegorical horror films that tackle complex societal issues while entertaining audiences. Additionally, Get Out has opened up conversations around race relations, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of how racism can manifest in various forms, including within progressive circles.
Conclusion
Get Out is a groundbreaking horror film that skillfully employs allegory to address complex race relations in modern society. By exploring the dark side of progressive racism and the fetishization of black bodies, the film encourages viewers to confront their own biases and prejudices. Get Out has left a lasting impact on the horror genre and the cultural conversation surrounding race, further solidifying its status as a landmark film.
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