Get Out

As a horror film, "Get Out" was more B-grade than "The Visit" or "Drag Me to Hell", relying heavily on an overbearing soundtrack and jump shots to heighten the tensions and crank up the scares. But as a satirical film of the times, it was emblematic of the current societal and political conflicts within America. However, it does not translate as well - beyond an intellectual level - to an international audience, especially in a predominantly non-Caucasian market. 

Critically, director/writer Jordan Peele came up with a fresh spin to an otherwise unoriginal story, but the execution was neither innovative or genre-breaking. There were quite a number of smart lines and many moments where the tension was purely in the words. Although, much of it seemed to be due as much to the excellent delivery by Bradley Whitford and Catherine Keener. 

Unfortunately, behind the satirical curtain the plot itself lends to a number of plot holes and contrivances. Many of which would have been easily resolved if somebody had taken more care to address the story rather than just advancing the narrative. For every ten smart writing, there was at least one moment of contrived logic. 

For the actors, Whitford and Keener were the standouts. Leads Daniel Kaluuya and Allison Williams had fleeting moments of chemistry but neither imbued their characters with much of a definition beyond the generic template. Through them, it seemed that Peele was more interested in telling a narrative rather a story. This was the same for most of the other supporting cast. And then we have the odd directorial choice to have Caleb Landry Jones to overact his scenes. 

Admittedly, expectations were high going into this film and I can see the merits of it. However, behind all the hoo-has, this was really just a mediocre thriller/horror film.