Us Review

Us is another great unique horror thriller from Jordan Peele. This movie is about a family whose lives turn to chaos when their doppelgängers begin to terrorize them. Lupita Nyong’o gives a fantastic performance. She is able to play both characters so different, but equally brilliant. Winston Duke gives a great performance. He is able to come across as menacing but also brings numerous moments of humor throughout. Shahadi Wright Joseph gives a really good performance. She plays scared very well, but she is even better at being scary. Evan Alex gives a good performance. While he is not given a lot to do, he has some great standout moments. Elisabeth Moss and Tim Heidecker give fine performances in their small supporting roles. Jordan Peele did a fantastic job directing. He masterfully directs scenes of suspense always knowing exactly what to focus on. Peele’s script is great, but not perfect. The characters are likable and the way he leaves a bread crumb trail of clues through the film to the ending is brilliant. There are also numerous moments of hilarious comedic relief. However, for such a unique movie it is weirdly predictable at times and has some annoying plot holes. The cinematography is really good. The way some scenes are shot is beautiful and can still send chills down your spine. I adore the soundtrack and the score for this movie. Every music choice is perfect, whether it is for a laugh or to creep you out, it all works. The editing is also great with some edits in the third act that were so perfectly placed. At 116 minutes the movie is never boring, but you do feel the length. The first act, while necessary to the story is quite slow at times as the movie takes its time. The second act is quite good as things pick up. However, I love the third act so much. The last 25 minutes of this movie are perfect. Overall, Us is a great and unique horror thriller despite its plot holes and a slow but necessary first act.
8/10