Us Film Interpretation

Expectations were high for the new Jordan Peele thriller “Us” from the initial release of the trailer. The use of Luniz hit 90’s Hip-Hop single “I Got 5 On It” created a whole new ambiance that you never would have associated with the song. Just like Peele’s directorial debut film “Get Out”, the film “Us” is filled with symbolism addressing social issues within the United States. Unlike his previous film which gave you the perspective of a specific race, this new film takes on classism within the U.S. as a whole. 

Often times it is easy for us as citizens to disregard what someone else is going through just because we aren’t in their specific situation. We don’t take the time to put ourselves in their shoes and do not prioritize improving living conditions for them. Culture in the U.S. can primarily revolve around one’s status and possessions. This is displayed throughout the movie with the fathers of the Wilson and Tyler families both competing with each other with the things they owned. 

There is a distinct difference between a person who is fighting to survive and one who is living to impress their peers. The movie highlights through the dialogue of “Red” (Adelaide Wilson’s Doppelganger) the aspects of life we take for granted. The things that often go overlooked and unappreciated can mean so much more to someone who has to fight their way just to get a taste of it. The smell of fresh air, a place to rest, good food to eat, are taken for granted. This film connects very well with an interview Tupac did in 1994. He made an analogy of hungry people outside of a hotel singing for food. The happy song gradually becomes more aggressive to the point where the people singing are breaking through the door.

This movie depicts a result of that. You have the doppelgangers who have been forced to stay underground away from sunlight. Initially passive in nature but then wanting more for themselves. They wanted to experience the life that they had never known. Through so much waiting their resolution became a violent one to obtain what they desired. This is a possibility for anyone who is oppressed or feels restricted. They may reach a point where they’re willing to risk it all just to have something better. That is something that we all must come to understand and learn to connect with one another. If we are unable to sympathize with each other’s situations and value our opportunities, we may be doomed to endure a destructive society.