Movie Review: Nope (2022)
Synopsis:
"Nope," directed by the visionary Jordan Peele, blends sci-fi horror and social commentary into a thought-provoking narrative that captures both the haunting and the extraordinary in the mundane. The film is set in the expansive and picturesque landscape of a small Californian town in the Santa Clarita Valley, where siblings OJ (Daniel Kaluuya) and Emerald Haywood (Keke Palmer) run a horse ranch. Their seemingly tranquil lives are upended by a series of bizarre occurrences linked to a mysterious object that hovers ominously in the sky.
As they wrestle with the pressures of their family legacy—a ranch that supplies horses to Hollywood—they delve deeper into the enigma that surrounds the UFO. The tension escalates as OJ and Emerald recruit the help of a cinematographer, Antlers Holst (Michael Wincott), to document their findings and, ultimately, the quest to capture the celestial phenomenon on film becomes intertwined with a chilling struggle for survival.
The search for answers leads to poignant themes surrounding media exploitation, the nature of spectacle, and the pursuit of fame. The film contrasts the mundane yet profound lived experiences of its characters against the backdrop of a horrifying reality that challenges their understanding of existence. This allows Peele to explore the societal undercurrents of entertainment and the often exploitative relationship between cultural narratives and real-life tragedy.
List of Actors and Characters:
- Daniel Kaluuya as OJ Haywood
- Keke Palmer as Emerald Haywood
- Steven Yeun as Ricky Park
- Michael Wincott as Antlers Holst
- Brandon Perea as Angel Torres
- Keith David as Otis Haywood Sr.
- Donna Mills as a local resident
- Ethan Hauck as a child actor on the set
- Cody Horn as a neighbour
Review:
Jordan Peele, who previously captivated audiences with "Get Out" and "Us," continues to demonstrate his flair for blending horror with cultural discourse. "Nope" is no exception. Upon entering the theatre, one cannot help but carry expectations built upon Peele’s previous masterpieces—expectations that are not only met but often exceeded.
From the outset, the film immerses the viewer in a tense atmosphere infused with an eerie sense of foreboding. The cinematography, helmed by Hoyte van Hoytema, is a standout feature. Each scene is beautifully crafted, revealing the vast, picturesque landscape that juxtaposes the characters’ internal struggles and the otherworldly elements they contend with. This visual storytelling enhances the thematic weight of the film and underscores the beauty that exists alongside horror.
Kaluuya and Palmer deliver stellar performances, perfectly embodying the complex sibling dynamic at the heart of the story. OJ, portrayed by Kaluuya, is a quieter, contemplative character whose stoicism is continually tested by the chaotic events surrounding them. His fear and determination make him relatable and sympathetic, drawing the audience into his plight. Palmer’s Emerald is a vivacious whirlwind of energy, bringing levity to the often violent circumstances while representing the yearning for significance in a world rife with exploitation.
One of the film’s most compelling characters is Ricky Park, played brilliantly by Steven Yeun. A former child actor turned theme park owner, Ricky’s involvement in the narrative explores the intersections of trauma, fame, and survival. His character serves as a reflection of the darker sides of the entertainment industry, where the commodification of traumatic experiences becomes a central theme. Yeun’s performance encapsulates the complex interplay between nostalgia and horror, underscoring how past traumas shape present realities.
Peele’s script artfully weaves together the tension of the UFO sightings with a powerful commentary on media consumption and the human endeavour for spectacle. There are numerous scenes where the characters obsess over capturing footage of the UFO, echoing a contemporary obsession with virality and instant fame. This is a profound statement on how society often prioritises sensationalism over the emotional ramifications of real-life tragedies. In a world where we are inundated with images and narratives constructed for our consumption, Peele cleverly highlights the aftermath of exploiting such phenomena.
The horror in "Nope" is multi-layered, transcending mere jump scares or gore. Instead, it creates a simmering dread that resonates deeper. The terror is often psychological, stemming from the characters’ isolation and their grappling with forces beyond their comprehension. The film remains cautious about revealing too much too soon; rather than providing answers, it consistently builds tension and maintains a sense of dread and mystery. As with all great horrors, the fear primarily lies in the unknown.
Accompanying this complex narrative is a haunting score by Michael Abels, who collaborates once again with Peele. The music enhances the atmosphere, using dissonance and rhythm to create tension that resonates throughout the film. The aural landscape becomes another character in its own right, cleverly juxtaposing serenity against the impending horror.
The pacing of "Nope" is deliberate, allowing for character development and thematic explorations before hurtling into moments of chaos and violence. However, this slow burn may leave some viewers yearning for a swifter resolution. Rather than succumbing to a conventional narrative structure, Peele defies predictability, weaving together disparate threads into a cohesive tapestry that reflects the complexities of human experience and engagement with the world.
Yet, while "Nope" is undeniably ambitious and offers a rich tapestry of themes to explore, it may also leave some audience members feeling disoriented by its cryptic symbolism and unconventional denouement. Those seeking clear resolutions and straightforward narratives may find themselves adrift in Peele’s grand designs. The metaphorical weight of the film often risks overshadowing its horror elements, which may lead to a divergence in audience reception, with some embracing its intricacies and others feeling unfulfilled.
In conclusion, "Nope" is a testament to Jordan Peele’s growth as a filmmaker and storyteller. It pushes boundaries, offering a unique blend of horror, science fiction, and cultural critique that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers. With captivating performances, stunning visuals, and a thought-provoking narrative, the film is both entertaining and provocative.
Overall, "Nope" deserves a score of 8.5 out of 10. It is a masterclass in redefining horror that invites audiences to reflect on their relationship with media, spectacle, and the truths we often prefer to ignore.