Media Research: "Us"

Hey Everyone! How are you all?  Welcome back to my blog!! As we continue our project we have a bit more research to get done. Today we will be looking into the movie "Us" produced and directed by Jordan Peele, released in 2019. In my opinion this is not your typical horror film.

Throughout the entire movie, Peele effectively employs suspense and fear to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. A feeling of horror is created by the careful timing and utilization of visual and audio signals. Peele ups the bar on the entire intensity of the film's experience by breaking conventional horror clichés and expectations. In our final task, we want to include this as well. That level of intensity really keeps the audience engaged and produces a nice project that fits into the horror genre. 

"Us" is filled with metaphor and symbolism, enabling audiences to dig deeper into the story. For example, the doppelgängers' red jumpsuits represent those who are oppressed and less fortunate parts of society. The consequences of societal neglect are vividly and metaphorically represented by the chained people, who stand in for the forgotten and ignored. Peele's use of symbolism gives the movie additional layers of significance and invites audiences to consider the larger social concerns it tackles.

With this I enjoyed how the movie took societal issues and twisted it into a horror view, representing the impact that it has on people. It not only gave viewers a movie to enjoy, but made you reflect on the things happening in our society today. I also enjoyed the comedy element of the movie. Although it was a bit gory, the funny parts tended to lighten the suspense a bit. It was like you wanted to laugh but then hide behind your pillow at the same time. The psychological aspect of the movie really appealed to me, because it made you think what I would do if I were i the protagonists shoes.....

In the film, I also noticed how Peele used horror cliches such as the funhouse (mirror room) and the use of those disturbing scissors to add to the unique vibes the movie gives off. We would like to incorporate these elements in our film to portray those cinematic illusions and connect to the the current evolution of the horror genre. 

One thing in the movie that did not appeal to me, was the gore. Being that it is a horror movie, it will 100% of the time be included because that is one of the main conventions. But, for me it was crazy. It was really vivid, which is awesome for a horror film obviously, it just wasn't attractive to me. As a viewer, I considered that an authentic horror film, it really stayed true to its conventions.

Thanks for reading! 

-Mariajose:)