Earlier this month, “Get Out” won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, but last night Jordan Peele's directorial debut found its way back to the big screen in celebration of a different reason. As a way of honoring End Racism Day, The Nickelodeon Theatre hosted a special screening of Peele’s modern classic followed by a panel to raise awareness on a pressing issue by finding a common ground in film.
“Screenings like this are inherent to our mission," Amada Torruella, the Nick's programming coordinator, said. "We hope to be a place where the community can discuss important topics, and partnering with the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission on this event makes space for ... such a conversation."
Inspired by its timeliness and her personal affinity for horror films, Torruella knew that “Get Out” was the perfect choice because of its social commentary and its clever spin on common horror tropes.
“Get Out is a sharp, insightful critique of the various forms racism can take in today's society,” Torruella said. “By addressing all sorts of scenarios, from micro-aggressions to systematic oppression, Jordan Peele does a phenomenal job, not only reminding viewers that there is a lot of work to be done to fight racism, but that it persists in some of the most basic day to day interactions.”
Set during the Trump era of politics, “Get Out” tells the story of an African-American man named Chris Washington, as he goes to meets his white girlfriend’s parents for the first time and soon realizes that her liberal family isn't as picturesque as it appears.
“Director and writer Jordan Peele used several symbols in his story to try to make non-black audiences reflect about experiences that they will never have to face,” Torruella said.
While the film has been a hot topic recently, Torruella has no doubts that its legacy will stand the test of time and is confident that Peele’s message will continue to inspire eye opening conversations.
“His masterful and lyrical storytelling will surely be talked about for years to come, in the film industry and film study departments, but also in the future as a cultural landmark that displays an era marked by political awakenings, decolonization, and cultural innovation,” Torruella said.
Most importantly, Torruella hopes that viewers walked away from the screening with a sense of awareness, a stimulating discussion, and another film to add to their personal collections.
“First of all, we hope this screening accomplishes the goal of making people think of racism and also what role we all play, and must commit to, when it comes to dismantling it,” she said.