This image released by Universal Pictures shows Evan Alex, from left, Winston Duke, Shahadi Wright Joseph and Lupita Nyong'o in a scene from "Us," written, produced and directed by Jordan Peele. (Claudette Barius/Universal Pictures via AP)
Jordan Peel has done it again, he has delivered yet another thought-provoking, suspense-ridden, and a surprisingly humorous masterpiece of a film with “Us”. The Comedy Central star turned writer/director, is on a roll with the last few projects he has worked on. As such a lot of attention was being paid to see whether or not he could live up to expectations, and well to say he met them would be a huge understatement.
“Us”, which is roughly based upon a classic “The Twilight Zone” episode, follows the Wilson family who is returning to their beachfront vacation home in Santa Cruz. Everything is well and good until a mysterious group of people appear outside their house one night. As it turns out this group consists of near perfect doppelgangers with a nefarious agenda and a taste for blood.
The film takes a very unique approach to the home-invasion thriller sub-genre which hasn’t gotten much love in recent years. However, there are elements of other genres as well, such as comedy and horror which makes the film very well-rounded and leaves a little something for just about anyone.
“Black Panther” stars Winston Duke and Lupita Nyong’o take up the leads and give such a convincing performance. Duke acts as sort of the main comedic relief throughout the movie and despite his previous serious performances, had both the audience and myself hysterically laughing at times. I also can’t help but mention Elizabeth Moss and Tim Heidecker’s appearances as the family friends who are unquestionably perfect for their roles and serve as a great contrast to the main characters of the film.
Not only is the cast incredible, but the writing, set design, and cinematography is also stunning. In fact, there really aren’t many, if any at all, bad things to say about “Us”. The camera work is brilliantly executed and well thought out. The music is also one of the high points with tremendous song choices from N.W.A and The Beach Boys as well as a chilling original score that together synergizes so well with the movie.
“Us” has so many layers of depth hidden within the film’s clever dialogue and cryptic, at times, framing. This is perhaps the best aspect of the film and it really adds to the overall suspense and story. It almost feels like you are unraveling a puzzle, piece by piece as you navigate through the subtle clues and hints as to what is going to happen next or what it all means. I seriously can’t stress how important this is to the film as these aspects are really what makes “Us” such a great watch.
“Us” is truly an extraordinary experience that needs to be gone into blind for full effect. Because of this, I don’t want to give too much away but as a harsh critic, it really means a lot coming from me when I say that although maybe not quite as good as “Get Out”, this may be the best movie of the year. With so many subliminal messages, hidden meaning, and various clues are strewn about the film it’s no wonder why Jordan Peele is being likened to a modern-day Stanley Kubrick.
