Analyzing the Symbolism of Modern Racial Tension in Jordan Peele\u27s Get Out

In award-winning films, themes surrounding race and ethnicity are typically avoided unless regarded in a historical context. Though, Jordan Peele’s Get Out(2017) breaks these barriers by taking a satirical approach to comment on modern racial issues and stigmas that are prevalent in American society. Furthermore, the film pushes society to finally see and understand the anxiety and racial trauma that African Americans continue to experience. The hidden symbols and messages throughout the screenplay further add to the film’s theme by metaphorically expressing that racism can be covert. With the intention to analyze these symbolic elements, I will break down the overall structure of the screenplay to reveal how certain aspects support the overarching theme of racial tension. In addition, characterization will be noted as the main characters represent similar and opposing beliefs influenced by racism. With this research, I will argue that Peele effectively uses symbolism throughout the screenplay to reinforce the theme of racial tension in the current climate of today