Jordan Peele, once a comedic genius on “Mad TV” and co-creator of the beloved “Key & Peele,” has transformed into a master of horror in recent years. His unique blend of social commentary, psychological thrills, and spine-chilling scares has revitalized the horror genre. This article ranks his exceptional films, celebrating his contribution to the world of horror cinema.
1. “Nope” (2022)
Imagine “Nope” as the “Star Wars” of horror—a cinematic masterpiece that assembles familiar influences into a breathtaking whole. In this sci-fi thriller set in a small desert town, Peele explores themes of familial bonds, Hollywood exploitation, and the intriguing world of animal wrangling.
Daniel Kaluuya and Keke Palmer portray O.J. and Em, siblings who inherit a horse ranch from their father, Hollywood’s legendary horse trainer. When something mysterious in the sky threatens their horses, they embark on a journey to capture evidence of alien life on film. “Nope” isn’t just a movie; it’s a cinematic tour de force. It delves into various facets of filmmaking, offering technical brilliance and profound insights about cinema, obsession, and our relationship with the animal kingdom. Peele’s latest creation is an instant classic in the horror and sci-fi genres, and a captivating exploration of the art of filmmaking.
2. “Get Out” (2017)
Jordan Peele’s debut feature, “Get Out,” is a modern twist on “The Stepford Wives.” The story follows Chris, a Black man dating a white woman, Rose, as they visit her seemingly liberal family’s remote home for the weekend. As Chris encounters a series of racist micro-aggressions, the film skillfully balances on the edge between horror and comedy, challenging 21st-century racial politics.
“Get Out” is a meticulously crafted work of horror fiction, layered with depth. It serves as both a gripping horror narrative and a social commentary, shedding light on the deeply rooted racism and white supremacy still present in America. Peele’s storytelling prowess shines as he cleverly conceals the film’s secrets, making it a groundbreaking piece of cinema.
3. “Us” (2019)
Jordan Peele’s follow-up to “Get Out” had the daunting task of living up to its predecessor’s legacy. “Us” stars Lupita Nyong’o and Winston Duke as Adelaide and Gabe, a married couple whose idyllic vacation home is invaded by mysterious doppelgängers of themselves. Peele crafts a nightmarish allegory for class warfare in a story that operates on dream logic.
While “Us” may be less focused than Peele’s other films, it remains a fantastic horror story. Nyong’o’s dual performance is mesmerizing, and the film’s surreal narrative serves as a powerful commentary on societal issues.
Jordan Peele’s journey from comedy to horror has been a remarkable one. His films, characterized by their unique storytelling and unapologetic focus on Black characters, have carved out a special place in the horror genre. With each project, he pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, making him a true master of modern horror.