I watched Us twice. WTF does it mean? (review)

The review for Jordan Peele's Us begins at 6:00
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[@ForHarriet619]

The review at 6:00 and don't forget to join the Patreon!! Patreon.com/ForHarriet

[@alexn.2901]

thank you.

[@em.415]

For Harriet Could the color red also represent communism? 🤔

[@Peighter]

I literally found my favourite youtuber you. Thank you

[@teancoffee208]

A few of your questions are answered in the movie. ~ Red knows where the hide-a-key is because "Red" is the original little girl. It's her family house. She was there as kid. She always knew where the hide-a-key was. She's also smart. That rock didn't belong there. It didn't look like any other rock around it. I just wonder if Adelaide (the original tether) knew there was a hide-a key there. ~ I think the connection to the tether loosens as they get older. You see similarities between people and their tethers as adults, but it's a little varied...twisted. Like the guy who had the "Jeremiah 11:11" sign. On the surface, he had a sign. Underground, he had it carved into his forehead. ~ Only Americans have tethers. It was a government experiment that failed, and instead of destroying the Tethers, the government left them to rot and die. But they continued to live, just like the ones above. The family was going to Mexico bc there were no tethers there. To be honest, Adelaide was the original tether, so even though she was a kid, she might've known the extent of her world down there. No telling for sure, clearly. I doubt Red was the only leader. Millions of people- uneducated, almost feral, prone to violence- all across America and underground? There's no way. ~The people and their tethers are clones (hence the rabbit theme). Well, something like clones. They think alike. Think of the little boy and his tether. They may as well have been twins. Tethers are twisted reflections, but they are still their own people. They don't have as much freedom, but they still have it. I liked the movie. I'm not raving, but I think the idea of Tethers is interesting. I'm still waiting to find out what all the hype around Jordan Peele is about, but I don't have anything bad to say about his movies. Get Out wasn't the most original movie, but I thought it was okay, and Us is better (but I might be biased bc I think that family is so cute). I agree that he's creative and he genuinely has great potential, so I'll probably watch his next movie- if it doesn't go any further into the horror genre.

[@8harbor]

thanks for this review and interpretation. i wonder whether peele was at all influenced by jennifer and june gibbons, "the silent twins" since they had a very interesting situation also in their speech and eventually a similar result of having a double. something about this movie reminds of that case a lot but haven't seen it brought up yet

[@HashiraTengen]

The part that hit me was Red saying "You could have taken me with you." As if to suggest that successful blacks are not reaching back enough to elevate others blacks.😢

[@spifftastic87]

YESSSSSSS, I haven't heard enough people talking about this aspect! Also the fact that Adelaide, having escaped and moved up to a better life, felt that she had to stomp out Red instead of helping her because she felt that her tenuous privilege was being threatened. #coughsteveharveycough

[@mariefrancoise12]

I hope that Jordan Peele is reaching back to black creatives (not just his personal friends) and making a way for more stories by and for black people to be told (small screen, big screen, tv, cellphones, whatever else is invented in the future, etc). I'm curious how what you said above will play out in his business, especially given that his mom and wife (and kids I guess) are white.

[@shezadoll85]

Love this.

[@gav2585]

mariefrancoise12 he already has done ally though....a major film with mostly black actors... lol, he killed the white family fast as hell. He killed all the white folks in get out too. You did add friends to the question, but where all of them his friends before he started working with them. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth

[@yogidevendrabiriyani1777]

or to suggest that children who are abused, or are poor, are being abandoned by the system- or by other people they need to save them. it doesnt even *necessarily* have to be a race thing.

[@JustCallMeWah]

Haha the Winston code switching was so hilarious 😂 I liked his corny-ness. Black men are never depicted that way and it was nice to see because there are Black men out there like that

[@UrbanDecayLova247]

Agreed! There are definitely black men out there like that but you almost never see it on screen especially in film.

[@saint_silver]

It was amazing and also well introduced. His Howard sweat, the boat thing, the goofy jokes ! I love that his switch was realist

[@samchampion9492]

I loved the dab lol

[@andrewwilson2399]

Being raised by a single-mother, I was hyper-aware of duo-parented Black homes. His depiction of a black goofy father was true to the only household I encountered of a middle class black family that had a seemingly healthy functioning relationship.

[@lowrider276]

I'd liked it as well. Idk I think the Huxtable-esque father figures are kind of antiquated now. The cornball dads are just typical dads now and tbh I prefer the corny dads lol

[@bascal133]

I defiantly noticed that too, not only was the film staring black people it was all dark skinned black people. 🤩

[@biancalord488]

I loved it

[@sonowwhat7592]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@itsniquenique45]

That's my favorite part

[@serenity6831]

Right?? 😍😍😍

[@fruitygarlic3601]

It has become so frustrating to see so many black leading roles played almost exclusively by mixed or light skinned folks. I'm so, so happy that Peele cast dark skinned actors, instead of following the outdated trend of relegating them to harmfully stereotypical side characters.

[@LolaSunshine3535]

Gabe Wilson's character was there to challenge your view of male and black male stereotypes. Also, it allowed Lupita's character to be what it needed to be, smart, strong and strategic.

[@LGJiG]

I totally missed this when I watched it, but I definitely see that since you pointed it out!

[@ashleyrp2007]

I agree. Plus it was Adelaide’s demon that she had to conquer. Her husband saving the day wouldn’t have given for a good plot

[@gav2585]

Thank you... folks always want to argue that people aren’t just one type of way, but once they show it or portray it on film or media they get bad cause it’s not what they think a charter should be portrayed as... people are complex and shouldn’t be put in a box regardless of race or gender. He wasn’t a coward.... he just wasn’t the leader.... his wife was and what he did was follow and I don’t see anything wrong with that.

[@Taewills]

And it affected white people stereotypes too; especially for thriller type movies. I was like, “don’t go out there! Uh-uh black ppl don’t do stuff like that” 😂 But I realized that he wasn’t or didn’t need to be the hero or even the voice of reason. She literally had to carry his ass.

[@LolaSunshine3535]

@@Taewills Yes! :-)

[@saint_silver]

Lupita is so slept on - what an amazing actress. She should be everywhere! Winston is also so charismatic, he got that superstar appeal. He should also be everywhere !

[@alexandravalerious3274]

Silver agreed. the woman has an oscar why isn't she in more films!!! she had the range!

[@firstblessings8777]

@@alexandravalerious3274 Her complexion is why you don't see her in many films.

[@MaRyaYTOfficial]

She is not her complexion, yeah that could be why. But I’m sure she’s working, I have hope

[@ManubibiWalsh]

Winston was so cute in this movie too!

[@Jynxxy13ravedoll]

I agree but maybe this is the work load they want. I mean heck, if any of us could live a good life off of working a few months a year I’m sure a lot of us would take that offer.

[@dellytancyl524]

Winston Duke's character in this movie is exactly how my husband is in real life - Corny to his core. I thought he was hilarious.

[@tokyoinooshi4836]

lol I love a corny to the core man. They are adorable hahaha.

[@HashiraTengen]

The Winston Duke character I know IRL went to Morehouse.🤣

[@Colormetat]

His character was more of a depiction of privilege and not being in touch with certain survival instincts.

[@lkeke35]

@@Colormetat : Yes! That's how I saw it. I saw him as someone because of his life and his size and power, has never actually been under threat at any point in his life, and is just very comfortable to the point where he has no survival instincts, but its important that Adelaide, as a Black woman, would definitely have developed those, no matter how comfortable her life would have been.

[@Colormetat]

lakitha tolbert YES! I agree!!!!!

[@mosimarasesemola9446]

31:11 Gabe wasn't intended to be cool. He was intended to be exactly how he came across as.....super corny and boarder line annoying, but a present father and husband who sees things and accepts them at face value. The character was intended to evoke those feelings exactly and Winston Duke's stature was used as a tool to demonstrate that not all tall, handsome and big black men are cool or even agile and violent in the face of danger. so, actually, he did a good job.

[@ObeyAmmalol]

LUPITA HAS THE RANGE

[@magicfanben]

I love Kim but I’m a little sad that the root of her criticism is a lack of understanding of the intent of the movie. This movie is an allegory, a fairytale, a biblical parable. It’s not meant to be rooted in fact bc certain details are inconsequential to the overarching narrative. It doesn’t matter where the tethered came from any more than how Jonah survived for 3 days in the belly of a whale, it’s irrelevant to the point of the story. It’s a fairytale. Red’s first words are “Once upon a time...” like the children’s stories of her childhood. This is an allegory for America (Who are you? “We are Americans.”) and our blood soaked history that we try to abandon and forget without ever making things right for those who we have left to live with the repercussions of that subjugation, never able to have true agency over their lives, which are just a sad, zombie-like impersonations of the lives of the upper class. As the people above live in ignorance of their privilege, those below NEVER get to forget their lot in life. This movie is meant to be viewed multiple times with each viewing allowing for new understanding. We originally see the tethered as the “others” coming into our homes to hurt us, to later realize they are the marginalized, rising up in a rebellion against their over lords. They are not others, they are in fact us. While we might tell ourselves if we just forget where we came from we can escape the damage our privilege leaves behind, we can not because our fates are inextricably linked bc we share a soul. We are one people. If our country collapses it will be due to neglect and denial of what we are doing to ourselves. “We are Americans.”

[@E_MZ_]

Wow, that’s so deep. Amazing

[@butterfly5591]

Wow, I love this explanation.

[@enicole2090]

@magicfanben Everyone who sees the movie will see the film from their level of perspective and understanding. You can only see the film as deeply as you allow yourself to discern the message(s) being presented. I believe that's another element to the film, the movie allows us to put a mirror up to ourselves. Some may only be able to see what's right in front of them.

[@magicfanben]

@Telisha3 Claiborne Thx! It feels like this movie has crawled into my head & laid eggs. lol I can’t wait to see it a second time. What people do or don’t take away says a lot about them. It is a Rorschach test of sorts. My favorite has been a YT video with 3 white reviewers doing a round table and they managed to discuss it for over 30 mins w/o ever saying the words oppression, slavery or genocide. Like how?! 😂

[@PinaColobster]

Thank you. This was incredible

[@dalightofthey]

This movie will be analyzed in classrooms for years to come.... 👌🏾

[@184rama]

Yup. When I was in college, 2 years ago, I took a class where we watched a bunch of Spike Lee's movies and analyzed what they meant. In a few years there are going to be classes on Jordan Peele's movies.

[@sassynaturals]

Theres a class based on get out lol

[@Itsunclegabby]

@@sassynaturals Wow! That's crazy!

[@darkwriter_xx94]

Exactly. I’m a grad student and my first thought was, “this is an academic’s dream come true”

[@growingpains7753]

The summer house was Red Adelaide's home when she was young, so she knew where the key was

[@BingoLongTravelingAllStar1945]

She was gone for 30 years right ? So that key would be moved

[@mermaidtingzzz]

Also the fact that it's common knowledge that a lot of people hide keys under rocks. Now had they had it in some crazy complex place then it would be questionable but that's not the case.

[@erinnmjones]

For the people who ask, "Well, why didn't the real Adelaide come back up when she got un cuffed?" Here's a possible explanation. Remember what she said in the monologue she gave towards the end of the movie? She said when she learned to dance, she found her purpose. She realized she was special and began to organize with the tethered to create their own version of the "Hands Across America" movement. She didn't leave because she realized that the tethered had no leader. Red (the real Adelaide) realized she was an activist, a Civil Rights leader of sorts for the disenfranchised. She couldn't ignore the tethered when she found out their oppression. Red (the tethered Adelaide that switched to live a normal life) on the other hand, left her "people" (the tethered) in pursuit of a "normal" life and tried to forget they existed. That's why she was hesitant in some frames to kill or watch the doubles die. That's why the family didn't seem to care about all of dead bodies and began comparing the number of kills they had like it was a video game. This movie's unlying meaning was straight up about class/slavery/power struggles and our ignorance to EVERYONE in the world who is underprivileged as a whole. Remember what Red said as well, "We're Americans" #thisisamerica

[@ashleyrp2007]

Erinn Jones good take. I think Adelaide stayed in the tunnels because the escalator only went down, there wasn’t an escalator that went up. That’s definitely on purpose.

[@parissharpe]

@@ashleyrp2007 Can you imagine the colossal effort it would take to run up the downward moving escalator! Or claw your way up the social classes? Or arriving at a comfortable place in life and only to realize that your white counterparts are always doing juuuust a little bit better than you....no matter what you do.

[@yogidevendrabiriyani1777]

BINGO!!!! ERINN

[@erinnmjones]

@@parissharpe facts!

[@BabyGirlTiny]

That's all fine and good, but it doesnt make sense in the movie. It makes sense in that context, but not the context of what was actually happening

[@soliloquylove2115]

I think Peele is definitely a fan boy of Tarantino's work. Lupita held the poker exactly like Uma in the underground scene as she's looking for Red. I agree with the theory of the U.S. not wanting to see who we truly are to the world. There's no way in hell we'd allow Japan, Korea, or Germany to have military bases in the U.S, yet we're everywhere. We had Pearl Harbor. That's it (unless you count 911). And then there's the acquisition of Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. We are not the good guys in this story.

[@itsny01]

And don’t forget about the US involvement in the Philippines...

[@alexandravalerious3274]

and that's not even counting all the us backed coups in other countries to further usa interests abroad.

[@indivisuals]

Rabbits 🐇 represent duality. The delightfulness of nature and the obscurity of the underworld. In some cultures they embody one side and in some cultures they embody the other.

[@tchew2545]

and how they went "down the rabbit hole/'

[@HollyFallout]

I loved the symbolism that the rabbits brought. Rabbits are defenseless, and are often used to test medical and cosmetic products. They're skinned for their fur. They are vital to our economy but are generally seen as disposable and unimportant. There are so many symbols in the rabbits.

[@bluboy4ver2]

I think I can clear up some things you think were plot holes because the info is there but you have to really pay attention. 1. Red was the one who found the key under the rock because she knew where it was, because she’s the original. 2. In regards to Red explanation to where the Tethered came from, she said it was her belief that the Tethered were made by humans to control the humans above. She’s basically a unreliable source because she wasn’t born into that world and hasn’t any idea what was going on prier to her being there. 3. After the switch happened when Young Adelaide’s parents took her double to see a therapist, the girl was lining up toy animals in a single row. Foreshadowing the events to come and suggesting that this plan was already in her programming. I have a theory based on seeing it twice as well,I picked up the twist pretty early the 1st viewing so I was already looking for clues. I’m not convinced the government made the Tethered nor do I believe they were created to control the humans above. The only instance that we get that the government may be involved is when Zora says in the car that they’re using fluoride to control people, which is why she wouldn’t get into the water at the beach. I think that was a misdirect if you caught it or not. I believe based on Adelaide’s behavior and a few things she says throughout the film that this mass attack was already in the works long prior to the switch. I have a couple reasons why besides just the young Adelaide double foreshadowing it. In the very beginning of the movie right before the hands across America commercial the news comes on and states that storms across the Bay Area have been causing power outages. When Young Adelaide wandered off at the pier and on to the beach she saw the storm on the horizon and then it started to rain before she walked into the fun house where the power goes out and she sees her double. The power outages happens twice after that in the film, 1st before the Wilson’s encounter their doubles and again when their white friends encounter their doubles. It seems whenever a person is in close proximity to their double it causes some kind of energy burst. I think for that reason and also because the doppelgängers weren’t always easy to kill is that they’re not “clones” in a scientific sense but they’re actually shadow selves of their counterparts. I then believe that because Red stated (which is the few things I trusted from her)story was that she and Adelaide are special and had a connection until their dance ended. I think Young Adelaide’s double knew this mass event was coming and when the coincidences of that night led to her finding the original Adelaide she made the switch to escape her fate. The event was always to rise up and replace/kill the originals and to become this redline barrier. I think Adelaide married Gabe because of his Beta male personality because she needed someone she could easily lie to and kinda control. She told her husband a lie about seeing her doppelgänger as child to insure he wouldn’t question her identity when the doubles showed up. I think She wanted her daughter to run track and her son to learn how to do tricks for their survival. When the time came she basically directed them on how to survive their encounters with their doubles. She told her family they needed to escape to Mexico because she probably knew the tunnels didn’t go that far (also Mexico, Red Wall, Trump reference). The last thing is that at the end Red asks Adelaide why couldn’t she have taken her with her. Implying they both could have had a life above together. I think Adelaide knew that her role in the event was crucial and she needed Red to be down there to fulfill her role. After Adelaide killed Red she then told Jason that everything was going to go back to normal and he didn’t need to worry about the Tethered now, as if she knew what needed to happen, happened and she insured her family’s safety. So ultimately Adelaide was playing everybody and everything to insure the outcome of this situation was in her favor. At the end Jason realizes/recognizes what his mother is and like her he put his mask back on. This movie has a lot more symbolism in it but I’m sorry you didn’t like it, I thought it was brilliant.

[@magicfanben]

Channing Beauchene YOU BETTA WRITE THEM WORDS CHANNING!! Lol Excellent analysis, much of which I haven’t heard theorized before. I’m sad that the root of her criticism is a lack of understanding of the intent of the movie. It’s an allegory, a fable, a biblical parable. It’s not meant to be rooted in fact bc certain details do not matter anymore than asking hoe Jonah survived in for 3 days in the belly of a whale, that’s irrelevant to the point of the story. P.S. Jason and Pluto definitely were swapped a year prior to the movie. Even his name, Pluto, is the name of the one planet that is actually NOT a planet. The dad talks of his changes since grandmas death, he goes to the beach and digs tunnels, he doesn’t actually know how to do his trick from last summer, he’s not freaked out by the bleeding guy on the beach nor does he bring it up, and in the car both he and Ade are off rhythm. Red takes HER son who SHE taught to speak and keeps him safe below.

[@ginettemayas7640]

Thank you for sharing. Haven't watched it yet. I hope to. I have watched a lot of spoiler videos. In your deconstruction, you don't mention at all the Scripture reference Jeremiah 11:11. Why? Isn't that a critical piece/key to understanding the motivation behind the film? As for the fate of Adelaide, doesn't the fact that she is actually the true Red "fake" Adelaide and survives show that her people did bring disaster upon the covenant breakers (the people above living their vapid consumerist lives). I like your theory that Adelaide (true Red) somehow knew or was clued in to what would eventually happen. Is it possible that Adelaide (true Red) was the chosen One. Red dies laughing after explaining what happened. The fulfillment of the "prophecy" has taken place. Again, I hope to see the film. I tend to run away from horror films, but I don't think it's horror like Aliens or something. I watched a Winston Duke "Gabe" on The Breakfast Club this morning. I think the overarching message is political and metaphysical/spiritual. The government conspiracy I suspect is a red herring. The "tethering" and shadow worlds bear closer scrutiny.

[@magicfanben]

Ginette Mayas I think Channing was just responding to some specific “plot holes” (which actually aren’t plot holes) to give Kim some context. Idk that Jeremiah 11:11 is integral to understanding the movie, I think it’s there to say God is on the side of The Tethered. It’s saying they are the moral side of this battle. I don’t personally need the Bible to tell me I’m on the side of the oppressed vs the privileged. Iol #TeamKillmonger 😉

[@chattyash]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@ginettemayas7640]

That's the best argument for the Jason/Pluto swap that I have seen. I 'm beginning to wonder if people didn't nap during the movie and missed a whole bunch of clues. @@magicfanben

[@ricomakeda]

I loved that there wasn’t a clear bad guy. And when the tethered were killed, Like when red gets killed i was kinda sad because she was really just wanting to be free.

[@hellokittycutie2003]

Jordan Peele expressed very early on that he wanted to do a somewhat typical horror movie with a black family. He didn't want their blackness to be the focal point or driving force of the film. Basically, normalizing us in horror. A lot of Us is about subverting expectations. Not only the expectations we have of him as the filmmaker, but what these characters do within the story. This is why the film is so heavy with horror tropes. It's also Peele paying homage to the genre. It's not flawless, but this was a really strong follow up imo.

[@chikaka2012]

hellokittycutie2003 Agreed, but this movie was far from typical horror. Yet the race of the family does come across as almost incidental to white viewers. I think that was Peele’s intent.

[@LC-fo1mw]

Rabbits were the first to be cloned by the government. Also, Adelaide didnt learn how to talk because she was above ground, it's because she had therapy. Mom said "she just wanted her daughter back. That's because she didn't have her daughter. But you can tell "Adelaide" had therapy because when she was finally saying more than 3 words she always started off with "I feel like" a common movie therapy term. I hate that people complain that Winston Duke is soft. Theirs a lot of men out there that's not shown (because if a black man is big he hasto be hard and a protector) when really there are a lot of nerdy men.

[@daynashley]

L C THIS!

[@darrellglover493]

Also, to remind you, this movie isn't to be taken literally. It's not a film where everything is supposed to be wrapped I a neat bow. It is an allegorical picture about the United States and everything that makes up the United States in it's false narrative of what America supposed to be versus everything that it actually is. So, there's not an arc, but rather a display. The conclusion is rather simple, however. Red successfully lead a revolution to liberate the Tethered and the Tethered stood from coast to coast in unity. The song choice at the end, "Les Fleurs" by Minnie Riperton pretty much highlights their celebration of their liberation: "Ring all the bells, sing and tell the people everywhere that the flower has come Light up the sky with your prayers of gladness and rejoice for the darkness is gone Throw off your fears let your heart beat freely at the sign that a new time is born"

[@Jess273]

The Gabe Wilson character reminded me so much of my dad. I was so happy to see that nerdy, “white sounding”, west coast rap loving depiction of a black father!

[@goshdarndenim]

Late comment... but I agree wholeheartedly. There are sooo many black men, like me, who act closer to Gabe then to whatever white Hollywood depicts us as so I was excited and appreciated his character a lot. That was me and my father, and my cousin and his father so I really loved that.

[@Jynxxy13ravedoll]

Then when he tried to put the bass in his voice it just comes across as silly or off. Like a kid trying to act tough.

[@Thatdentalgurl]

Jordan Peele Directly says this movie is about the US and from there most of the questions you had can be reconciled. You said what stopped the tethered from going up above. Well, what stops the underprivileged from rising up? The answer is nothing. The belief that you cant rise up is enough to keep you down. You mention hating the loose ends but they are what allow people to talk.

[@ambersjamsenterprises6909]

Deri C there were obstacles though...there was an long escalator that only goes down...you’d have to run up it, to escape and the power went out, which is how the first tethered girl, got up. She ran up the escalator when it was still.

[@BabyGirlTiny]

It still doesnt make sense in the movie because they all managed to get up from it anyway

[@LadyWisteriaa]

@@BabyGirlTiny ... because they saw Adelaide as a symbol of hope. Someone from up top had come to the bottom. And she made them realize that they could go up top

[@UnpopularOpinion3000]

True. Mental slavery

[@TailsMPrower]

Nice point. Also notice how the underprivileged tethered didn't gain anything after killing the originals. They were still aimless and didn't speak. The only tethered that actually earned a good life and made a family was the one that had the determination to learn how to speak, dance and went to therapy. Unfortunately, she also pulled Red down in order to bring herself up, which gave Red's question of "why she was left behind" even more of an impact. It's almost as if the theme is not to pull down the seemingly privileged when you think you are oppressed, but work hard and you could be just like them. Maybe even a bit of "don't start a revolution to kill half the population, because it won't actually make things better for you. Violence doesn't solve any problems". What are the tethered going to do now? They don't know how to cook, all the chefs are dead. They don't even have rabbits now. Nothing changed apart from the piles of corpses.

[@taneicalyn8272]

I think the reason why the plot twist got you so good is because you’re not a horror movie fan. Honestly, I think that’s the ONLY thing about the movie that was kinda unfortunate. If you’ve watched enough horror movies with twins and doppelgängers, you’d have caught that REALLY early on. I knew what happened as soon as little Adelaide was looking at the back of her own head. 😂 I really enjoyed the movie tho.

[@NuraM444]

i've watched many horror films and i did not see it coming tbh

[@stvltiloqvent]

i also saw the twist coming... really, that was the only plot point i predicted exactly right. which is rather unfortunate because without the plot twist the rest is just gore and survival horror - and not even that scary at that. meh. Get Out was better.....

[@LadyWisteriaa]

@@stvltiloqvent comparing Get Out to US is where you start to mess up and short yourself on the movie.

[@naturistfred]

There was a plothole with the switcheroo. If you recall "Adelaide" while in the car drives pass the homeless guy she recognizes as a kid on the boardwalk but the problem with that is in the beginning little Adelaide walks by the homeless guy with the Jeremiah 11:11 sign before she goes into the Funhouse and swaps herself with Red. I am sure there is others but that stood out to me the most.

[@LadyWisteriaa]

@@naturistfred she didnt recognize him. She was uncomfortable coming back to the beach and was shaken up by the sight of a dead dude on a stretcher all bloodied up

[@TheTT1981]

You are expecting too many literal answers from the film. This is a fantasy world. It is not realism and a documentary. This was a great film

[@summersunsets13]

TheTT1981 💯

[@Sofia_Monteiro]

Red knew where the key was because she remembers from her childhood

[@Kaylagregg2076]

Sofia Monteiro and their brains are linked and that’s why they were around the corner every time they turned around. And how fake red knew to go to the fun house mirror

[@nae6485]

Lupita describes the walk as a roach and a queen and I've never seen it meshed together so well

[@nae6485]

Melissa S 😂 ikr when she said that I was like... girl but I watched it again and she was right

[@ninagrace-lee8323]

My take on your take: GABE- Jordan Peele mentioned that this movie wasn’t about race, so we need to observe his actions from a different lens. If we take “US” to mean the literal United States, perhaps Peele could be commenting on the duality of male fatherhood as depicted in media. The stereotypical patriarch is portrayed as goofy, comedic and a little corny. We aren’t used to seeing Black men being portrayed this way, which was interesting. The downside is that patriarchal men don’t tend to listen to their wives. They are also off-beat and infuriating. And these men are often attached to materialism and the status it brings them (the boat, etc). And considering how Santa Cruz is a very white city, his desire to meet up with a family he doesn’t really like to go to a beach that isn’t all that great, says something about him. The duality in this character, how we perceive Black men, and how patriarchal male roles don’t actually end up protecting families is a goooooood thing to discuss. DETAILS - If this movie is indeed an allegory, then it limits the scope of the movie to spell it out for the audience. Peele trusts the viewer to put things together, often in ways better than he could dream up. I don’t believe in tying up all the loose ends for a franchise that has yet to be completed. We know Peele puts these movies in the same universe, so somehow this is connected to Get Out. We might have to wait for the next movie to accurately assess the connection between the 2 films. The third film might flesh out some details and answer some questions we had from the first 2 films.

[@nope_no_nunya.]

Excellent points. Well done. Liked especially, "The duality in this character, how we perceive black men and how patriarchal male roles don't actually end up protecting families is a [good] thing to discuss." THIS; and, to your point, usually the so-called Head of the Family, the King of the Castle with the most machismo is often the most ineffectual. But in this story, the man is goofy, corny and, ultimately, ineffecual (it's Peele's send up of the steotypical sitcom dad). Because of this, Ade has to become the Father and the Mother as happens so often in single parent families. Ade is a single parent, no matter Gabe's bravado and macho posturing. "YOU DON'T GET TO MAKE THE DECISIONS NOW," she screams. She emasculates him. He's fired. He's cancelled. And he knows it. The look on his face says it all.

[@erinnmjones]

The cloning went wrong. That's why the shadow people can't do all of the things the "normal" untethered could do. If they were perfect clones, the experiment would've worked and they wouldn't have been left alone to themselves. The movie hints that others did escape. You have to watch it again and pay attention to the contradictions of each character. Some theories suggest that Jason was switched. Some also say Zora was too. Remember the brief scene at the dinner table when Winston asked Zora about running track and how she didn't want to do it anymore? It was the same conversation Adelaide had when the white lady asked her about dancing.

[@starzzzy22]

I never thought we needed an orchestral version of "I Got Five on It" heavily featuring a cello (shout out to those of us who played cello!) BUT I love it!

[@bluboy4ver2]

One more thing I forgot to mention, I think I understand why Adelaide was snapping off beat in the car. I think because Jason is the child most similar to Adelaide and has personality traits closest to her doppelgänger self, she was coaching him to appear normal. Jason and Adelaide seemed to be parallels and he was the one person she couldn’t convincingly lie to.

[@mrh2821]

I don't know if we are suppose to think the son is autistic or not but the family does make note that he sees the world differently. Maybe that difference is why he can see who his mom really is?

[@LC-fo1mw]

Adelaide was snapping off beat is because she was the tethered so she sees the world differently. That's was she peaked at 14 while dancing while the real Adelaide danced beautifully. Also, it might be because Jason is really Pluto and was switch during their trip when the grandmother died. Thays why the family doesnt know where his new language came from and why he use to be able to do the trick (that Pluto can do) but can't anymore. Thats why Red didnt kill him and why he's so close to "Adelaide"

[@bluboy4ver2]

L C I’ve heard the Jason clone theory before and I don’t really buy it because he has very reluctant key Tethered personality traits like a desire to kill and also he was visibly frightened of his mother when he watched her kill. I also don’t think he would have shown any reluctance or suspicion about her being Tethered too. I just think genetically he was the child who adopted the most anti-social and socially awkward Tethered personality traits from her. Jason is also not not a liar or naturally deceptive, his mother basically coached him into tricking his Tether during their first encounter.

[@saint_silver]

You clearly don't watch a lot of horror movie - the lack of answers is typical of the genre, the lack of closure is suppose to create this sense of haunting.

[@XstargirlX09]

Silver agreed

[@kaylaglazz]

nah fam Just like bird box they needed to create a bs half story to backpack off of. There are horror movies that give answers thats really lame to say "ThE qUeStioNs Make it ScArY" lol they can't fit a whole storyline in thats it its a cheaper easier thrill.

[@saint_silver]

@@kaylaglazz idk know the ending is an obvious homage to Hitchcock's The Birds and that movie to didn't explain anything. They are no real plotholes in this movie - all the questions asked felt really nitpicky. The movie as a real sureal feel especially when Adélaïde takes the elevator and makes her katabasis.

[@79thakidd]

i so agree. it's that not knowing that makes this genre. just seeing all those shadow people in that overview and those helicopters capturing it was crazy! it puts you on edge. perfect example is the movie The Mist. Us ending is similar and that WTF is what's great.

[@margolane8529]

@@saint_silver the birds does have sociopolitical messages yes, but it's not so in your face like us. Not explaining anything in a film where you don't make any promises is ok, but you know before you even watch us that Peele is trying to tell you something. I wanted more answers in us

[@RickityKricks]

The man with the Jerimiah 11:11 sign was the first one killed by the shadow people. I think Jordan was trying to talk about the class structure in the US and how race plays a part. The husband is competing with his white friend. They are both upper middle class people but the white friend seems to be slightly more wealthy. The nice boat vs. the old beat up boat, the conversation about the friend's car. When Red said "you had the sky." is a way of saying that Adelade had opportunities. Look at the way the shadow people acted. Why didn't they kill Adelade instantly like they did the other version of themselves? There is a Dave Chappelle joke about how rich white people treats poor white people. And how the way black people see other black people as if there is some familiar connection. Where as with white people it's not that way. I think we are suppose to see Adelade's family as this well educated (Howard hoody) upper middle class family who is tethered to people who are "beneath' them. The lesser educated equivalent of themselves. The idea that they are black but they're not "black black" because they have the type of life where they are in competition with rich white folks. Also how the "you wanna get crazy, we can get crazy" is like a white person putting on a "blaccent" and that's why it's sort of "cringy". There is a lot that happened but the little conversations they had in the "boring" parts is where Peele sets the tone for who they are suppose to be seen as. Not to mention that even though little Adelade had a father in the beginning of the movie we only saw pictures of her mother in the house. And we know that was her childhood home. I don't know I'll have to watch it a second time.

[@helloalexandraa]

“She is my Scientology bae” I’m screaming 😂😩

[@Itsunclegabby]

Someone had mentioned that they believe, due to Red's comment of "...we're Americans", that "Us" as a title really means "U.S." - The United States. If we join forces, "the people on the bottom" can overthrow the people on top. ;) I liked the symbolism in the movie: white rabbits (didn't enjoy them being torn apart, as I live with a very spoiled house rabbit roommate), 1111 - a symbol of duality and awakening, as above so below, cloning, 33, 322 - a number referencing Skull & Bones...I found the names of Red's children to be telling too. I feel like Jordan did a good job at both using symbolism and connecting the dots with story telling. I'd like to see it a second time.

[@alexise0226]

1. Red knew where the key was because she is really ade and that was her families house 2. only some people can connect with their shadow (ade and jason have that special connection which is why ade was able to escape, it was said that like 1/10 kids have a special connection) 3. It was an american experiment so only Americans. 4. I think the dad was supposed to more of a geek, like def not a hard person, hes a punk a gentle giant... 5. I think the main idea behind the movie, that I pretty much though the whole movie was people being neglected and rising up. We as americans neglect our fellow americans (hence, red saying "were americans") and if we continue to neglect people who are no different from us they will rise up for whats rightfully theirs (hence, civil rights). I think it also shows how much we are a society of selfish beings where we just care about ourselves and take for granted what we have when theres others that will kill for something simple like lipstick (ie. elizabeth moss with the lipstick). Basically we are all connected and should come together not push away... we should help each other, not ignore each other... I think people went into this movie expecting too much and expecting this type of life changing message but the movie was just a horror movie that did have a simple message to it :-)

[@FleetingArtist]

Thanks for your explanation Alexis, I was wondering what the movie was about and your explanation makes so much sense! I now have a new appreciation for this movie.

[@irobbartist6093]

what is a special connection and how does that work?...I saw the movie, still dont get the control over the tether part

[@alexise0226]

@@irobbartist6093 the movie explained that the tethered people were created to control the humans above, it didn't work out but some did work out... the mom had a connection with her tethered as well as her son

[@irobbartist6093]

@@alexise0226 but didn't they all, hints the scene where they were all mimicking their above person at the fair? And how is this tether controllable at times and free will at others?

[@vernyjuane9922]

This movie was sooo good. Your should watch other analysts and breakdowns to understand it better.

[@Deebie19]

Like who?

[@LC-fo1mw]

Its very clear after watching it twice shes still missing a lot of the movie. I just want to lay it all out but it would take to long of all the things shes missing. I though Kim does her research before making her videos

[@RickityKricks]

The White Rabbits and holes are a reference to Alice in Wonderland

[@lunagarelli3230]

Matrix too maybe?🤔

[@E_MZ_]

Luna Garelli yeah! The matrix reference came from Alice in wonderland

[@mosimarasesemola9446]

31:11 Gabe was not a comic relief actually, he is an exploration of alternative but real black masculinities.

[@shezadoll85]

We're used to having everything wrapped up in a neat package at the end of a story. But for it to be open-ended just makes it more unsettling. The unanswered questions just leave room for discussion and different interpretations. Horror movies usually have open endings. The monster comes back for one more jump scare or we get some clue that the horror isn't over. I think this movie did what it was supposed to do.

[@millryan7236]

I like that he left a lot of stuff for interpretation, not everything needs to be explained because it can take away from the overall messages. Like for instance, a lot of people were asking where they got the clothes and stuff from but It’s obvious that they got the clothes, scissors, and gloves from their experiments with the government, I’m pretty sure the government tried to teach them how to control the person they were tethered to before just abandoning them. I think us talking about the logistics of it all takes away from the real important conversation we should be having on the social and political commentary the movie conveyed, I don’t understand why where the doppelgängers got the suits and scissors from matters? When if you really think about it you could make all of what seems like plot holes make sense with your own common sense. Maybe it’s Jordan’s fault for thinking viewers were smart enough to figure some stuff out on their own but unfortunately nowadays people want everything spoon fed to them like a little baby who can’t do anything by themselves.

[@bellet0305]

I knew “Adelaide” was different for whatever reason when I realized she was vegan and did not consume alcohol. Not that it’s something different in reality but I thought Peele emphasized this early on for a reason. I initially thought she had a disorder that allowed her to see and communicate with the others, but that was wrong. Another point is, Red grew up in that house prior to the switch. She knew where the key was and the area they were in. Also, at the end, “Adelaide” and Red got what they wanted regardless of their fate. “Adelaide” smiles because she got away with it all and with her “family” in tact. She took control because she knew exactly what time it was. Red, being the messiah of the tethered, successfully organized and freed them.

[@JordansBeauty22]

Exactly and the daughter didn’t get in the water cause she thinks the government is putting fluoride in the water. It’s the details on the beach that foreshadowed a lot

[@Anna133199]

Her "family" is her actual family though. She gave birth to those children and it's her who married that version of her husband.

[@Iamthatis137]

Anna133199 She might be referencing the belief many people have that the boys were switched a year prior. So that boy at the end would have been Pluto and not her actual son, but still a member of her “family”. I’m not saying I buy it, but it’s just a consideration and a possibility.

[@SheriMaple]

I think Jordan Peele wants to make us think. It's not always ideal that the writer or director should feed us for everything. Gabe's role is about privilege and respectability politics, It's questioning your idea about gender roles in society. The film is meant to be discussed. Wendell Pierce once said that his job as an actor is to tell a story that gives you a message or something to discuss and entertainment is a by-product. Jordan gives you symbolism that can have more than one meaning. He talks about race without talking about it. I don't think Peele wants to spoon feed us with what everything thing means. We should have feelings about the film other than we didn't like but what happened when you left the theater. The title is brilliant because literally and figurative it's about us. How we move through the world, hiding those deepest and not so great part of ourselves, not dealing with the wrongs of our past, etc. There large themes and small ones. We are afraid of.

[@daynashley]

Yes!!!

[@BigWillProductions1]

I think we need to remember just HOW CONNECTED everything was in Get Out. Jordan proved that he has the ability to make a perfectly logical film. This one was about the abstract message and it was deliberate. It's not like he's so hack who can't write a cohesive script. I feel like he chose to make an art-horror in the best way he knew how and that's it. I was asking these questions too, but I realized that Jordan was specifically not trying to make something that was 100% sound. In Get Out, every word means something. In Us, every visual represents something.

[@BigWillProductions1]

I'm a person who picks apart every bit of a film and wants everything to fit together perfectly. People like us need to acknowledge that some things are purely artistic. It seems that it is supposed to be theorized about where as Get Out's point was worn on the outside. Many films are like this, and I just think that we went in looking for more of the same. There was a point when I had to stop myself from digging in and comparing it to things because it hit me that he's trying to present this message through visuals and not through words and iron-clad plot points. I really think there is a tendency to jump to the conclusion that people who have done well once can't do it again. Especially with Black people, I've seen many who didn't like Get Out, were complaining that Jordan was getting acclaim, were predicting that Us was going to flop, and are now dogging it out saying "SEE? I told you he wasn't shit!" I don't think you are going at it from that angle, but I do think that there are many types of entertainment and many ways to deliver messages, but as film critics, we like to pick our favorite and hold all other films to that same standard. I watch a Lars Von Trier film and I'm mortified at how grotesque it is. Others watch it and are impressed with his depth, realism and dedication to the symbols, even if they are insane. (That movie has a talking rabbit for a single scene that is never explained) This is a case of Jordan writing two completely different types of films back to back. There are bound to be expectations. I for one am proud of him for doing something so different instead of trying to make another perfectly woven story. We saw with Shayamalan how quickly you can go stale when you are interested in holding to a standard you set for yourself in your first film. I feel like each of Jordan's movies are going to be very different in delivery, but will all have an equal amount of effort put into them. Seeing that copy of C.H.U.D. on the shelf in the first shot proved that to me.

[@briannawilliams5299]

Yes, I think he did a lot of story-telling with visuals and the way things were shot. I think that because people are so used to movies being laid out for us that it is missed on many when there is a utilization of methods other than dialogue to tell a story.

[@BigWillProductions1]

@@briannawilliams5299 Exactly. I also think people should strive to be ok with having questions at the end of a film. A painting has NO explanations of what it means, yet people enjoy them. I think this mentality is why fewer people enjoy traditional artwork. This movie wasn't trying to use logic to explain the message, just like how Emory Douglas wasn't using words when he depicted police officers as pigs. You get the point if you understand the details surrounding the visuals. If not, you just have to ask questions and make assumptions. That's ok. There is nothing wrong with leaving a piece of art on "But I'm not sure". This seems to really bother people though and I think that holds us back.

[@briannawilliams5299]

BigWillProductions1 It’s funny that you used the painting analogy. I used that as well. I remember when I realized you could decipher emotions through brush strokes . It made me appreciate paintings a bit more then I had before; Same thing with moving pictures. With this movie one of the more profound moments (for me) was when the camera focused on Red post “Adelaide “ killing her. It seemed a little long first viewing but that was because of the words it replaced. Even though it seemed a little drawn out the first time, I still knew that it meant something. And is it just me, or did you love that dance between the two of them? There wasn’t any dialogue but it was a useful storyteller, much like dancing itself. Double entendres were everywhere in this movie, but it’s fitting isn’t it?

[@honeydrop7306]

The way the clone killed the real Adelaine disturbed me especially the way she smiled it almost seemed like she stole Adelaine soul as well. I think the clones are only mostly going to look for their own counterpart to kill. The rabbits are clones too so they probably get "made" then consumed. I suppose. Also it only happened in the US.

[@alenasmith2846]

But the Tethered wouldn't know how to make the clones... They weren't that sophisticated. The scientists involved abandoned the experiment and the clones so the clones wouldn't be able to clone more rabbits themselves. And she's right to bring up how where the rabbits being fed... Not only that, but where did the clones get their clothes from? Someone had to have gone above ground and there was really nothing stopping the clones from going above...they could have escaped at ANY time so why didn't they? Huge plot holes in this movie

[@francesca8413]

SPOILERS, BUT.... I don't think young Evan Alex played Jason as odd because the character was on the spectrum, rather Jason was actually a tethered replacement just like Adelaide. Think about it - Red was strangled by Adelaide as a kid so she speaks with spasmodic dysphonia as an adult; Pluto was likely burned by "Jason" when replaced a previous summer with his "trick" hand spark-toy and he can't speak because his mouth is burned shut. Then, Jason says alarming things because he's a tethered who is learning language, he constantly hides in small spaces because that is what's familiar to him, and on the beach Jason was making "sand tunnels" rather than sand castles. Jason is also the only one Red doesn't ordered attacked in the first meeting of the tethered and non-tethered, just that him and Pluto play together. This would also explain why Pluto is the one tethered's death that gets such an emotional reaction out of Adelaide (because she actually gave birth to him). Furthermore, when Adelaide kills throughout the film, she grunts like a tethered, which is only observed by Jason. The final scene where Jason (holding a white rabbit) and Adelaide look at each other, to me it looked like they are sharing an unspoken understanding of what they really are, all while the dad and sister sit oblivious in the back seat.

[@MsSonali1980]

This is the first explanation here where I can see that they both may be switched. Makes so much sense. :-)

[@Iamthatis137]

I really like this theory and it does make a lot of things make sense. But I have some sincere questions. Like, why did the switched above-ground real Jason act like Pluto? Red could have taught Pluto to speak, but then why would Jason act like him after they were switched? And how would Jason learn their language in less than a year? And why would he love and listen to Red if she is not his real mother? I am interested in discussion about this.

[@quentinbell3035]

Come through with the sociology! 🙌🏿 Karl Marx & W.E.B Dubois education

[@juliebogen1797]

I felt like the implication with "why do the tethered mimic actions sometimes, but not all the time" was tied into another thing you mentioned, which is that the tethered stayed in the tunnels and mimed the experiences of their above-ground copies for basically a whole generation, never once thinking that they could just do something else, or just bail. They were indoctrinated into the idea that they COULDN'T DO ANYTHING ELSE. They literally could not conceive of even having a choice. That's how Red became their leader and they latched onto her with so little provocation; she had the unique advantage of being partially born outside of that system, so she was the only one able to conceptualize the should-be-obvious-but-maybe-not-if-your-soul-has-been-beaten-down-enough thought of, "hey, this is actually a monstrous construct we're in, guys, let's bring this whole thing down... with stabbing." And then through the preparations and execution of their revolt, they're able to organize and act independently, but the programming hasn't been completely eradicated yet, which is where the occasional mimicry comes in. In a more general sense, though, I think this movie not only resists a super-literal reading (where stuff like the failure and abandonment of the clone program and the logistics of the rabbits and such would have concrete and detailed explanations), but is kind of designed to be permanently ambiguous? The spaces aren't filled in because we're supposed to fill them in with whatever we think fits there; I didn't get the feeling that those open elements weren't explained because they were overlooked, but either because that detail wasn't needed to convey the important thematic stuff, OR because the movie did not want to tie off that particular thread for us (especially the ending). I think Jordan Peele might have said as much in the press tour; he wanted the movie to reflect "us" so completely that we're also kind of the ones who are building our own conclusions and deciding which societal metaphors could apply, without there being any actual correct answer. And I do think the ending was supposed to be triumphant, but more for the tethered, or the general concept of a bloody but maybe necessary upheaval of the status quo. Kind of like, well, we all thought we were entitled to the privileges and opportunities we've enjoyed this whole time, but maybe we were actively ignoring the people who will be barred from those opportunities forever due to some accident of birth or circumstance, who could just have easily been us---- take Original Red, who supplanted Adelaide, and subsequently learned to speak fluently, to control her body, even dance; she could clearly feel, and love, and fear in ways that are recognizably human, implying that ALL of these scary animalistic mole-people who rise up from the tunnels are not actually horror-movie monsters at all, but just very unlucky and neglected people who probably actually do have souls, despite Red's assertion, but were arbitrarily kept down to maintain a convenient societal image based on widespread willful ignorance. ANYWAY, this is a freaking novel, I'm sorry. I like this movie a lot!

[@darrellglover493]

You ask how they know where the hidden key to the summer home, but fail to remind yourself that RED is the original ADELAIDE. That was the home where she stayed at in the beginning of the film.

[@143ROSHON]

It wasn’t just a vacation home it was where adlelaid grew up so of course red would know where the key is because she used to live there

[@quinnieq93]

It was a family vacation home. Adelaide wanted to leave and go home because of all the coincidences she was noticing. Do you not remember her speaking to Gabe in the bedroom about wanting to go home? Before the invasion.

[@reegankay9799]

Quindera McClain yes but it’s also where she grew up. As the op said. It’s not JUST a vacation home.

[@ashleyrp2007]

I didn’t even catch that. I thought she knew where the key was because she thought like her. Good catch.

[@erinnmjones]

The rabbits were the first to be cloned successfully and they also procreate quickly. I think Jordan was making a point of the less fortunate being forced to eat cloned food since it's they can't afford to eat anything else. It's like during slavery, ancestors were forced to eat what was lying around. The tethered were left to eat and cultivate what they had which was rabbit meat. They had to learn to pasture rabbit because it was all they had

[@Ladyrocksavage]

The reveal at the end should tell you how they knew where the key was, that house belonged to Adelaide's family... Shadows were just in US, Adelaide-prime was the mastermind, she knew the world up there while the others didn't; they were raised by her and they took orders from her. Everything including rabbits were failed government experiments, at the beginning it tells you how tunnels were abandoned etc.. maybe watch it for a third time.

[@punkinbean]

I always fall asleep in movies. It's even worse now that the movie theater by my house has recliners and heated seats.

[@Blemished_Babe]

Lol

[@tynishaalexanderia2716]

Me too. My attention span...

[@Anna133199]

I've never heard of heated seats. Do you happen to be an American? Heated and reclining seats sound like a very American thing to have in a movie theater.

[@punkinbean]

I live in Illinois, now, but it is getting to be pretty common in the States with new or renovated theaters.

[@summersunsets13]

punkinbean maybe you have sleep apnea

[@JordansBeauty22]

I believe Jason was switched out the year prior that explains why he was different to them. Like not being able to snap on beat, he was building tunnel sandcastles on the beach and even the twins recognized his weird behavior and said on the beach “why is your brother so weird”. It explains why he didn’t snap on beat. This also explains why he was never able to light the lighter because he was the tethered version, and the other version was able to. And it explains why at the end he was able to light the lighter. Because he finally became untethered. And why red stole him and took him underground cause he’s originally her son. And why the mom didn’t want pluto to walk into the fire cause she realized it was the son she birthed.

[@TheWellnessAbbey]

I know I'm late but I think he acted weird not cz he got switched, but because he has tethered DNA in his genes as it shows up in both him and the sister (the sister stopped running track if I remember correctly).

[@kayboo5835]

@@TheWellnessAbbey 💯 Jason was a clever diversion in this movie and inherited more of his mothers genes it seems and Zora more of her fathers. He's ain't no David Copperfield the spark of the lighter is the magic trick and Pluto's clicking is mimicking Jason's striking of the lighter and not on beat 😂 All kids are hybrids and Pluto seems to be more seeking of affection but acts more primitive where Jason seems more distant, is very perceptive but has trouble socializing, opposites! These theories of him burning the house down make me laugh like what parents in their right mind will let their child play with anything remotely flammable if that had happened and if anything they let him play with the finger lighter in the 1st place coz it's not filled with gas! Anyway piece out ✌️

[@kelseyr6179]

Jordan Ross never thought of that! It makes a lot of sense!

[@reasc2071]

@@TheWellnessAbbey 🤔 this never crossed my mind...

[@SoulSheIS]

I knew she was one of "them" when "Fake" Addy, started grunting...

[@jlcii]

Lupita Nyong'o it's already getting Oscar buzz for this movie. I would love to see her get the Oscar for best actress next year.

[@maaarleisha]

At 3:12 you said mischievous instead of the commonly used “mischievious,” and for that I just wanted to thank you 😩😂 (it’s the little things)

[@irgraham27]

They knew where the key was because it was young Adelaide’s family summer home. She would know where the key was because she grew up there, visited yearly before she was swapped out. I didn’t catch that until the end too! Edit: why they didn’t think to escape before Adelaide I think is a play on the “Allegory of the Cave” in that none of them could conceive of leaving because it didn’t exist. It took someone who has been outside of the cave and not looking at the wall to show them the way out.

[@audiolove1976]

Random: If Jordan Peele is the 80s pop culture junkie that I believe he is, I think he named the Lupita character "Adelaide Wilson" after the Telma Hopkins character of the same name from the classic sitcom "Gimme a Break." IJS 😊

[@SoulSheIS]

Wow, that's a good one...

[@flyleelee5351]

I was wondering where he got that name from! I was Gooogling the meaning of that name and everything....it's plausible!

[@audiolove1976]

@@flyleelee5351 yeah I instantly thought about that character from Gimme a Break. That's one of my favorite 80s sitcoms lol.

[@Galvion1980]

Fuuuuuuuuu.....I never caught that!

[@alexise0226]

I think all the actors were crazy good! Lupita stole it for me of course but two parts that I was like holy macaroni was 1. red and ade fight at the end (that part when red first walks backward from the board, i shit my pants lol) 2. when elizabeth moss's shadow character was putting on lipstick, omggggg I pretty much figured the twist out in the beginning but I have a theory that the little boy was switched when they were at the house the year earlier which is why the family keeps mentioning why he has all these new words and is acting so different... also, i feel like he knew his mom was not normal when she killed the twin in the glass house and he knew because he knows how the shadow people are... i love the movie, i mean i love horror so its right in my alley :-)

[@basebenthem1080]

There’s many different themes, and social and political commentary given to us by Jordan peele in the film but the main one is: We live in a society where higher class citizens are treated like first class citizens and lower class citizens are oppressed and forgotten about in America, that’s the big main message he was trying to convey.

[@queendeej29]

Love your commentary as you are wise beyond your years, however I totally disagree with your review on this one.

[@LGJiG]

I think that the tethered only happened in the US. That's why Adelaide wanted to go to Mexico. I think this was a political movie and the tethered that couldn't speak may represent the "voiceless" of us or the worst parts of ourselves and that those ppl will follow the one person that gives voice even if that leader encourages violent/hateful things. Kinda like how many are saying that trump gave a voice to voiceless working class/poor white men and they follow him no matter what he says. I also think the hands across America line represents a divide in our nation due to the political climate and Peele thinks that will be our undoing as a nation(possibly). I also wonder if he highlights how ppl will use religion to justify violent and hateful views because in the first Red scene she said that God led her to the one she was tethered to and Red felt like she was justified to kill her. I wonder if the fact that Adelaide stepped up was some kind of commentary/explanation of the dynamics of a broken black family. The black man was attacked first and then the black woman had to step up. I also, noticed that Adelaide wore handcuffs for most of the movie and that may be commentary about how single black women (or maybe single women in general) have their hands tied or are held back because they are now the mother and father of the family.

[@804smiles]

I like the view u givin about givin voice 2 da voiceless dat really resonates wit me and i haven't even seen the movie yet!!!

[@LGJiG]

@@804smiles I hope I didn't ruin it for you! You should definitely watch it to get your own opinion.

[@804smiles]

Nah u didnt noy at all im prob da only person who can hear everything about a book movie or show and i will still watch it and get my life i actually like hearing about sumthing 1st so im not surprised lol crazy

[@deenaprice1524]

Yes, it's just America. Red said "We are Americans." Plus, it was a government experiment, so it would presumably be the U.S. government acting alone and not in concert with other governments. Also, the opening statement referred to the abandoned tunnels in America. And, of course, the line you referred to, when she said they should go to Mexico to escape.

[@nope_no_nunya.]

Whoa😕

[@deenaprice1524]

I noticed the inconsistent mythology, too, as well as the slow and illogical parts, but I still loved it. I was completely engaged. As far as interpretation goes, I've heard some people say it's our lower v. higher nature/ ego versus id type of thing. But my first interpretation was the Marxist revolution theory mentioned here. A person on Twitter put it so eloquently by saying that the people are underground are doing the exact same motions as the people above ground, but the lack of resources makes all the difference. The Hands Across America campaign was about feeding the hungry, and that leads to that interpretation as well. The people underground are voiceless, soulless people. They might as well be animals, because they're just bodies. But given the same nurturing as someone above, they are fully capable of achieving the same level of success as those above ground. Red felt a great injustice was done by having the 2 worlds separated. She said why didn't you take me with you. She was a child. She wanted why they both couldn't live in the sun? Why does it have to be only or the other? Why is this a zero sum game where one of us HAS to be trapped in the tunnels? Well, that's I gathered.

[@MilaBelen]

Yea, but animals are not 'just bodies'. They have central nervous systems too. And we humans are animals too..

[@shellbeeforreal3915]

Keep in mind that history is a long never ending story of the oppressed fighting the oppressor

[@Frivolitility]

The question "what is this movie about" reminds me of what Tolkein said about allegory and applicability. He thought the problem with allegory is it is limited to one interpretation. It's better for fiction to raise themes without giving all the answers. All the different threads in this movie create applicability. The fact that they're not all resolved makes thinking about it more interesting, at least to me.

[@basebenthem1080]

To answer some of your questions: 1. What makes them tethered is that they share a soul with the person they’re tethered to above. My guess is being tethered is like a mind state, and it takes a lot to break it. Its sorta like how a lot of people who live in poverty are programmed to stay there through oppression and by our society, and it takes a lot to “rise” within the ranks of society when you aren’t given any tools, you have to do it by yourself, and the people that put you there wants you to stay there. 2. I think the boy could control his tether because they were children. If you remember Jason’s tethered was the only one who wasn’t really trying to kill him unlike the others, he was less violent towards Jason. I think Jordan was trying to convey a theme of innocence and how we as children are less susceptible to the connotations and societal structures that are put in our heads and take over us as adults by our parents and society. 3. The government did this to them in order to control the people above, the movie said that word for word. 4. The experiment shutdown or failed because they couldn’t find a way to make the tethered control the people above, so when the people they intended to be the puppet masters became the puppets the government just abandoned them and forgot about them. 5. When you say why didn’t they escape earlier, it reminds me of when middle class and higher class people say to lower class people, why don’t you just become first class citizens like us or blames people who lives in the slums of poverty for their situation entirely on them not realizing the government and society did and does things to keep them there. It’s almost like a generational thing where people are programmed to live and stay in poverty, and being there put Them in that mindset which took them a while to break free from. In interviews Jordan saids “generational trauma” so many times. 6. Red didn’t kill her doppelgänger, her doppelgänger killed her in the end. 7. The hands across America scene was the end, that was it. All of the doppelgängers had to kill the person they were tethered to In order to make the chain. But yes there is enough left to explore a second film. There’s many different themes, and social and political commentary given to us by Jordan peele in the film but the main one is: We live in a society where higher class citizens are treated like first class citizens and lower class citizens are oppressed and forgotten about in America, that’s the big main message he was trying to convey.

[@JordansBeauty22]

See I don’t see it that way because they said that they don’t share a soul the cloning by the government failed because they don’t share a soul, and that also ties with the religion motif. That maybe the clones were made to prove theirs a soul and that ties with religion. That also ties with the rabbits even tho their clones each ones individual and does individual things so when u see them in the cages and running around they have different thoughts and do different things.

[@Hooks2013]

"not everyone has type 2C hair" --- I am dead....also, the lipgloss is fire!!! Ok, back to the review...

[@nicoleverkus6817]

I saw the movie this weekend and I'm still working through it. I liked it a lot, but I think ot was a bit too ambiguous. One thing I wanna put out there: Winston Duke is Jordan Peele. With the beard and the glasses, he just looks like a bigger and more muscular version of Peele. I think that a lot of people will not like it because they think it's not logical, but I think that this isn't the point. It's more about the metaphor and I don't really care about the logic. Exept for one thing: Where did they get the gloves from? Did they steal them? Did they make it for that purpose? Did they make just the right ones or is there a room full of left gloves? Where are the left gloves?!

[@ambersjamsenterprises6909]

Nico Leverkus not just the gloves, but the scissors and the jump suits. Where’d they get all that stuff!!!!!?!?!??

[@nicoleverkus6817]

@@ambersjamsenterprises6909 I don't think that matters. It's mostly about the metaphor.

[@LadyWisteriaa]

@@ambersjamsenterprises6909 why does where they got it matter? Thats nitpicking.

[@Iamthatis137]

“Where are the left gloves?!” Love it! Best critique of this movie yet. 😂

[@onceevery4years]

The concept of being beneficiaries of an imperialistic nation, the same one that oppresses you, is truly a paradoxical reality. It is an important conversation, but one that has a clear parasitical ongoing dynamic and arguably negative experiences that illustrates Black "Americaness" distinct limitations. Valid benefits being trickled down by way of proximity to people who make these decisions and being ingrained in a society where "dog eat dog world" is a casual explanation to these questionable tactics does make for a complicated position that can be questioned...

[@itskamtime]

I like how when faced with their flip side/ demons the white people could not handle it and died instantly, except for Kitty who as a woman gave out a little longer, while the black family was able to band together and overcome their flip personality

[@rgirl1243]

Was "Us" a good movie? It was well made technically. The story was orignal, which is something that Hollywood is missing right now. Mr.Peel is breaking new ground as a black horror director that seems to focus on a more mental thriller( revamping some of that old Hitchcock tease). But the box office seems to like the movie and in the end that is what is important.

[@gav2585]

I wasn’t shocked that they where switched, but what jordan did is great.... immersion is a key element of a good to great movie and with both US and get out I predicted certain twist, but was was still immersed. The movies felt fresh, and the way he tells a story is amazing

[@glorificusbarryhex]

The Tethered/Shadow family knew how to break into the house because that's the same house her family stayed in before she was kidnapped. The house was her mother's beach house. It was referenced early on in the movie. The Tethered/Shadow folks were used by the US government to control the folks above, but they abandoned the project for whatever reason, leaving the shadow folks to mimic the behavior of those above. Red led the rebellion because she was the human and not a clone or copy, making her different from the others. The dancing scene near the end of the movie explains it. The Tethered saw her as different and they chose her, not the other way around. The logistics of the planning don't make much sense, but when you have 30-ish years of free time you can plan a lot.

[@JustCallMeWah]

I can’t wait to hear your opinion! I had to make 2 videos about it because I didn’t want to spoil it.

[@bellet0305]

Just Call Me Wah Hi Wah!

[@JustCallMeWah]

Hey Belinda!

[@MsJdennis12]

Yes!!!!! I was talking about wanting your analysis of this film right after I saw it 🙌🏾 I’m ready!

[@derrickbates7807]

Birdbox: "it was whatever it was" I'm dead 😂😂

[@rgirl1243]

They created the people below to control the people above, but it didn't quite work, so they abandoned the project. But that just makes for more questions. This was a long episode of the Twilight Zone.

[@TXejas19]

That would be even more interesting to see 😱

[@nailahbell8067]

The government is irresponsible. Not such a stretch. Lol

[@SJcollects]

Love your review & channel. Here’s some of my main thoughts/ theories about the movie: 1. The movie is an interpretation of the United States (US), and the social class system. Upper, middle, and lower class 2. The tethered represent the worst versions of ourselves and our wrong doings that will come back to bite us in the end 3. The rabbits tie in the main themes of cloning, reproducing, going down the rabbit hole (the underground), and Jason’s fascination with magic. 4. The red colored jumpsuits ties in hands across America, MJ’s Thriller costume, and bloodshed 5. Maybe the movie has a bunch of plot holes because it’s just Jordan’s interpretation of America and not to be taken literal (because let’s be real, the plot makes no possible sense) 6. Us the movie has no definite meaning. It can be interpreted in anyway you see yourself as your own worst enemy

[@thumbsupworthy]

I think you're forgetting that the horror genre is based in fantasy and fantastical, incredible plots that are not based in reality. Most horror movie plots aren't realistic when it comes to setting the scene that puts the plot in motion. That being said, what makes this film so good is that Jordan used this fantastical movie to tell a meaningful story that really makes you think about the deeper messages instead of just giving us the typical jump scares and gore that are standard for your everyday horror movie. Jordan Peele is elevating the genre and that's why this is a great HORROR film.

[@darrellglover493]

It was strongly implied, as well as Red explaining her purpose in leading the Tethered, that they are going to kill their original selves and then stand out for all the world can see. You noticed that the original man that held the Jeremiah 1:11 sign was killed and his doppelganger appeared by himself at the beach in his arms stretched out. He was already in position. So it is implied that Red made a set of instruction to the Tethered to kill their original selves and then go to their positions to form a Hands Across America chain. It is due to that being her initial inspiration from the commercial and the shirt she had on under the Thriller shirt.

[@Jaye773]

I thought the red jackets would signify prison attire

[@chattyash]

Jaye Franklin and like a jumpsuit Jason wore in Friday the 13th.

[@lukesguywalker]

i like that you mention sound design. when adelaide goes into the attraction at the beginning, it begins raining outside and you can hear it outside. later on the movie, i'm talking towards the end, there's a scene that flashes back to that moment VERY briefly and you can hear the rainfall outside. i just thought it was a nice detail.

[@ashleyrp2007]

Get Out had just as many plot holes and symbolism as US. Get out was the better film but both films want you to fill in the information for yourself. Pick up the context clues.

[@shadowseer07]

I slightly resent when people bring up plot holes. I get that the film probably has them, but why is it everyone’s first instinct to over analyze every damn thing in fiction? Just sit with the story and experience it maybe? Not everything needs to be explained all the time.

[@KeishaCharmaine]

Everyone followed Red because they knew she was different when she danced. It's possible that someone escaped before but they probably just assimilated.

[@tamaracharese]

Who said we can’t talk about the Cosby Show? Still my fav show... pause

[@unsolicitedopinions7769]

I think Jordan doesn’t do real plot holes as much as he leaves things to the viewers. A lot of things were clues more than plot holes, like the key. Also the beginning mentioned the tunnels and abandoned subways underground so they probably had tethers everywhere. The tethers didn’t know about life above ground so it was up to Red to lead them. Being that they were led by her, it’s possible they just stood around holding hands in the end lol

[@MegaJazz1973]

When she says "I'm great thanks for asking," takes me out everytime 🤣🤣🤣🤣😄😄😄😄😄

[@danielcrotty8697]

I am loving this channel. Your videos remind me of when I was in college studying critical theory, English literature, and film.

[@Oceanpurples]

I love your content!!! Your critic on "she gotta have it" really had me coming back for more.

[@a.h.2667]

I agree with the comment about Winston Duke. He reminded me of Tyler Perry's acting, when he's not playing Madea of course.

[@josephine_marie]

Yes I understand Winston’s character is corny, but I thought his performance was a bit dull. His acting didn’t convince me and at times my eyes would glaze over

[@shizzlecrystal5964]

He didn't have a good script to work with unfortunately.

[@theecancerian]

Josie I feel like that’s how a lot of Non-Black American actors playing Black American characters. The characters are either very stoic, mysterious and quiet or corny, over the top with AAVE and cringeworthy which is the COMPLETE opposite of how Black Americans act in real life. Examples are Snowfall, US, Get Out etc. That’s my observation.

[@RM-mg7oz]

@@theecancerian what?? They play black people especially men as tough guys and beat people up and thugs.i think he casted him so people can judged him because he is black, tall, and a big guy and judge him to be a tough guy. Meanwhile his is not he is a nerdy dude with no survival skills or instincts.

[@JustCallMeWah]

He wanted to not only suspend our disbelief he wanted our disbelief to be expelled

[@MsABee1]

I had to come home and look online for assistance with helping me understand the "hidden" meanings behind the movie. I am certain I would have gotten a better understanding if I had a chance to view it again.... BUT I am happy I had a chance to support it this weekend. In the end, Peele set up a top glass with Get Out and nothing will ever match that movie... but I am delighted that his creativity is getting a chance to be seen and due to that we are getting a chance to see so many actors that we wouldn't have had a chance to see. Nice review!

[@kakoishii]

I hear what you're saying about black audiences wanting to protect black creators. That definitely happens, sometimes to a fault, and I do believe that played a part in Peele's first movie and even Black Panther; however, I disagree that that is the reason why people are being so positive about Us right now.That sort of good will tends to fade with a follow up film, so if it's garbage, you'll often see an over exaggeration of negative sentiments. While I don't think Us is perfect, I loved the move, and as a horror movie enthusiast, I feel that this is why most of the reviews are so positive. No one is making original horror movies like this. I can't remember the last horror movie I watched where I was legitimately scared. During Us, I was on the edge of my sea the whole time. The film making is top notch, a lot of the acting was great, and it was paced so well. I wasn't really sure what part you were referring to where it slowed down and got boring. For me, the movie didn't really leave a lot of time for you to get bored. That aside, I respect you're opinion and maybe not liking horror played into why you weren't a huge fan, but I'll say this is a good movie period not just a good movie by a black director.

[@ribbledude]

Love your reviews so much. I actually adored this film and all there is to unpack here, but I appreciate hearing your perspective.

[@MiSsEdWaRdCuLlEn102]

I was waiting for your review!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ashleybarloweNC]

Great discussion, Kim! My son & I saw it last night & we are still talking about it! 👍🏼

[@nichellec.1752]

I was distracted by the fact that Red was the only one that could talk the whole movie even though I only figured out the switch when Ade went back to the funhouse right when she hits the owl or whatever pops out. While it makes sense, it doesn't make sense. Why didn't Red teach the others how to talk? Clearly they're capable bc Ade learned. Why did the shadow people only learn she was different after she danced when she could talk?! How did they understand English?

[@ForHarriet619]

Damn. How could they understand English?

[@Nezziekay]

How did Abraham know about the key. His wife is tethered to Mrs. Wilson, and most likely she know it was there as a child, oh and she told him it's there. Bcs in the breakdown at the end umm she explains you can't clone a soul, but a body you can. Red was the only human. Rabbits ate rabbits, and the tethered ate rabbits, and the rabbits made other rabbits. Your trying to ride it? Wow. The the father role in the film was meant to be funny, privileged, not understanding danger or threat so that's probably why you didn't appreciate Winston in role, His size and color weren't used as a weapon in this movie.

[@ForHarriet619]

Rabbits are herbivores but thanks for the other points!

[@Nezziekay]

@@ForHarriet619 not in this fictional MOVIE

[@ForHarriet619]

Kay, calm down.

[@Nezziekay]

@@ForHarriet619 Just for clarification I'm not the opposite of calm. I used caps in place of an exclamation mark. That's all not trying make you feel any type of way. Have a good one.

[@melanatedmermaid9453]

If they are starving with no other food then even animals who are natural eaters of plants will turn to eat meat just to survive . But if the rabbits are shadows of other rabbits then it makes sense that they’d keep on regenerating I guess