Luke Perrett ’24
Sports Editor
Jordan Peele is a director, writer, and producer who has emerged as one of the most exciting and original voices in modern cinema. Best known for his work in the horror genre, Peele has built a reputation for crafting very terrifying stories, that also carry deep meaning.
Peele was born in New York City in 1979 and grew up in a mixed-race family in a predominantly white suburb. This experience would go on to influence much of his work, particularly in the way that he explores issues of race and identity. Peele first rose to prominence as one half of the comedy duo Key & Peele, which he formed with his friend and fellow comedian Keegan-Michael Key. The show, which ran from 2012 to 2015, was a success and highlighted Peele’s skills as a writer and performer.
However, it was Peele’s directorial debut, 2017’s Get Out, that put him on the map as a filmmaker. The film, which tells the story of a young black man who visits his white girlfriend’s family, only to discover a sinister plot to transplant white people’s brains into black bodies, was a critical and commercial success. What made Get Out so remarkable was the way that Peele used horror as a vehicle for exploring issues of race and identity. The film’s imagery and symbolism drew heavily from the African American experience, and its exploration of the “sunken place” – a metaphor for the way that black people are often silenced and marginalized in American society, resonated with audiences around the world.
Peele followed up Get Out with 2019’s Us, a film that once again used horror to explore themes of identity and otherness. The film tells the story of a family who are terrorized by their doppelgängers and was widely praised for its ambitious storytelling and stunning visual effects. His most recent film Nope, is an overall commentary on the history of Black people in cinema, and how they often go not talked about. The film is also the first in the horror genre to use IMAX cameras in filming.
In addition to his work in film, Peele has also made a name for himself as a producer, with credits on hit shows like The Twilight Zone and Lovecraft Country. His production company, Monkeypaw Productions, is dedicated to telling stories that push boundaries and challenge audiences. What sets Peele apart from many other filmmakers is his ability to combine high-concept storytelling with a strong social message. His films are not just scary – they are also deeply thought-provoking, and often leave audiences pondering issues of race, identity, and power long after the credits have rolled.
To put it simply, Jordan Peele is a visionary director and storyteller who has made a significant impact on modern cinema. With his ability to weave social commentary into his horror films, he has carved out a unique niche for himself and other members of the Black community and continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
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