Few filmmakers have redefined modern psychological horror films as dramatically as Jordan Peele, whose debut Get Out broke new ground and set a standard that his next film, Us, impressively upheld. Released after the genre-bending success of Get Out, Us continues Peele’s unique blend of unsettling storytelling and social commentary, cementing his influence in contemporary horror cinema.
Peele’s 2017 breakout with Get Out emerged from Universal Pictures as an instant classic, surprising many who never expected a comedian like Peele to become a dominant force in horror. Drawing from inspirations such as Rosemary’s Baby and The Stepford Wives, Peele sculpted a horror narrative that deconstructs aspects of American life. Using Get Out’s critical acclaim as a springboard, he took his next film in a bolder direction, creating Us—a work that expanded his thematic reach while maintaining high production values and a fresh vision.
Us Stands Out as a Psychological Horror Masterwork
Peele’s sophomore effort, Us, followed the nearly flawless reception of Get Out, earning a striking Rotten Tomatoes score of 93%, just a notch below its predecessor. The film showcases Lupita Nyong’o in a tour-de-force performance as Adelaide, the matriarch of a down-to-earth family whose world is upended by violent doppelgängers. Much like Daniel Kaluuya’s acclaimed role in Get Out, Nyong’o leads a talented ensemble, delivering a psychological thriller that mixes relatable family dynamics with deeply disturbing themes.
Viewers are initially immersed in the family’s seemingly tranquil world, only to witness it unravel as the story veers into the horrifying. Us buries sharp social commentary in its details—such as references to classic hip-hop tracks—reminiscent of the sly symbolism found throughout Get Out. The film’s narrative plunges into societal fears, using the terrifying concept of body doubles, known as the Tethered, to explore anxieties rarely addressed in mainstream horror.
How Us Broadens the Scope Set by Get Out
Both films carry the distinctive marks of Jordan Peele’s style: razor-sharp narratives, meticulous pacing, and profound social reflection. However, where Get Out focuses with haunting precision on racism as a core theme, Us shifts towards a broader, more conceptual territory. Its chilling home invasion sequence, juxtaposed with N.W.A’s unmistakable anthem, underlines Peele’s willingness to mesh style with substance, emphasizing atmosphere while refusing to dilute the underlying message.
The story in Us ultimately unfolds on a grander scale. While Get Out zeroes in on the twisted dynamics of a single family, Us gradually reveals a wider allegory about class and oppression in America. By its conclusion, the film’s threat transcends a personal ordeal, morphing into a vision of collective reckoning as the Tethered emerge as a symbol for marginalized populations poised to disrupt the established order. Race remains present, a lingering undercurrent, but the movie’s core concern pivots to the repression of entire social strata—turning the horror lens onto the whole world, not just a single household.
Memorable Characters and Key Performances
The cast of Us, featuring Lyle Brocato, LaKeith Stanfield, and particularly Lupita Nyong’o, delivers performances that anchor the film’s psychological intensity and emotional weight. Nyong’o’s portrayal of Adelaide stands out for its wisdom and depth, as her character guides viewers through a labyrinth of trauma and resistance. Daniel Kaluuya’s earlier work in Get Out likewise sets a benchmark for Peele’s direction, while Chris Washington’s journey into Upstate New York in Get Out establishes the template of ordinary individuals drawn into extraordinary, horrifying circumstances.
Through these stories, viewers are encouraged to reflect on both personal and societal fears. The presence of the Tethered in Us, silently awaiting their chance to rise, serves as a metaphor for the repressed and ignored segments of society—themes relevant to the world at large and the ongoing American narrative.
Jordan Peele’s Lasting Legacy in Psychological Horror
Jordan Peele’s impact on modern psychological horror films can be measured in his ability to challenge assumptions, stretch genre boundaries, and compel audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about society and themselves. With Get Out and Us, Peele has not only thrilled and terrified viewers, but has also prompted necessary cultural conversations, inviting reflection on race, class, and the human psyche. As he continues to evolve and expand his creative vision, his influence on the horror genre remains profound, making his work essential viewing for any fan of psychological suspense.
