Movie Review: Us (2019)
Synopsis
"Us" is a psychological horror film directed by Jordan Peele, renowned for his innovative approach to the horror genre. The story centres around the Wilson family: Adelaide (Lupita Nyong’o), her husband Gabe (Winston Duke), and their two children, Zora (Shahadi Wright Joseph) and Jason (Evan Alex), as they embark on a summer holiday to their beach house in Santa Cruz, California. However, their idyllic getaway soon turns to terror when they are confronted by a doppelgänger family known as the "Tethered," who emerge from the shadows during the night.
The Tethered, consisting of doppelgängers of the Wilson family – Red (Lupita Nyong’o), Abraham (Winston Duke), Umbrae (Shahadi Wright Joseph), and Pluto (Evan Alex) – represent a twisted reflection of their counterparts, embodying their hidden fears and unresolved issues. What ensues is a violent struggle for survival, which forces the Wilsons to confront their deepest anxieties and contradictions, and ultimately compels spectators to ponder themes of duality, identity, and the darker aspects of humanity.
Peele intertwines social commentary with horror tropes, making "Us" not just a story of monsters lurking in the dark, but a profound exploration of systemic inequalities and the shadowy parts of the human psyche. With stunning visuals and a haunting score, the film invites audiences to engage with its layered narrative while keeping them on the edge of their seats.
Cast of Characters
- Lupita Nyong’o as Adelaide Wilson / Red
- Winston Duke as Gabe Wilson / Abraham
- Shahadi Wright Joseph as Zora Wilson / Umbrae
- Evan Alex as Jason Wilson / Pluto
- Elizabeth Moss as Kitty Tyler / Dahlia
- Tim Heidecker as Josh Tyler / Tex
- Yaya DaCosta as Aimee
- Karrie Martin Lachney as the First Tethered Girl
- Anna Diop as the Tethered Woman
- Madison Curry as Young Adelaide
Review
Jordan Peele, known for his genre-blending abilities, impresses once more with "Us," a film that expertly combines horror with a social critique that challenges viewers to reflect on the spectres that haunt them. Where "Get Out" grappled with race relations and personal identity, "Us" extends this introspection into the realm of duality and the consequences of societal neglect.
The film’s set-up is executed skilfully, using a prologue that introduces us to a young Adelaide, who encounters a mysterious and unsettling young girl in an abandoned funhouse. This fateful encounter ignites themes of fear and otherness that echo throughout the rest of the narrative. The story’s structure is mirrored in the divide between the Wilson family and the Tethered – two sides of the same coin, much like societal classes.
As the Wilsons navigate their vacation, Peele deftly interlaces humour with palpable tension, which serves to humanise the characters amidst the chaos. The dynamic between Gabe and Adelaide is particularly compelling; they exhibit a blend of affection and frustration that rings true for many couples. This duality is the crux of the film, which asks pertinent questions about personal history, privilege, and societal behaviour. What do we owe to ourselves, our families, and the world at large? And how much of our identity is shaped by the ‘others’ cast out from our society?
Lupita Nyong’o delivers a masterclass performance, adeptly switching between the vulnerable Adelaide and the menacing Red. She captures the struggle of a woman grappling with trauma and the haunting spectres of her past. Her portrayal of Red, who commands a harrowing presence, enshrines a sense of tragedy within her villainy; she embodies a mother driven by desperation and a desire for freedom from a life of neglect and oppression.
The tension builds deftly to a crescendo, with each encounter between the Wilson family and their doppelgängers escalating in intensity. The initial suspense gives way to shocking violence, yet Peele often balances these moments with an acute awareness of dark humour—an element that is emblematic of his style. The film’s comedic beats do not undermined its horror; instead, they provide depth to the characters and showcase the absurdity of their situation.
Visually, "Us" is captivating, featuring rich cinematography and striking imagery that serve to enhance the film’s themes. The stark contrast between the sunny Californian backdrop and the ominous undercurrents of dread creates a chilling juxtaposition that reflects the film’s exploration of the duality of human nature. The haunting score, composed by Michael Abels, adds an additional layer of tension, skillfully underscoring pivotal moments and enhancing the overall atmosphere.
At its core, "Us" is an exploration of identity and the ways in which individuals reconcile their fears and desires. The film poses thought-provoking queries about privilege and the notion of "the other." As the Tethered navigate the world above ground – a world they have been purposely excluded from – viewers are forced to confront their discomfort surrounding inequality and societal failures. The film begs the question: Who really are "us," and who are the true monsters within society? This inquiry reverberates long after the final credits roll, prompting discussions about both collective trauma and personal accountability.
"Us" is not without its criticisms; some argue that the film’s ambitious narrative can feel convoluted, and the overt social commentary occasionally detracts from its horror elements. Nevertheless, the film’s symbolic richness and visual prowess merit appreciation. Peele’s daring approach to storytelling continuously invites audiences to interpret and dissect the allegories woven into the fabric of the narrative.
The film’s ending, while thrilling, leaves audiences with a lingering sense of ambiguity. Whether it serves to reinforce the cyclical nature of violence and suffering or proposes a glimmer of hope is open to interpretation—a hallmark of Peele’s artistry. This ambiguity enhances the film’s staying power, inviting repeat viewings and layered analyses.
Conclusion
In summation, "Us" is a multifaceted horror film that seizes the imagination and compels viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths that dwell within their own identities. Jordan Peele’s masterful direction, combined with a stellar performance from the cast, creates a pulse-pounding experience that leaves an indelible mark. With its adept blend of horror, social commentary, and complexity, "Us" is a thrilling examination of self and other, old fears and new realities.
Score: 8.5/10
