I wrote this in September and I’m still in awe of this cinematic gem.
There’s spoilers afoot. If you’ve not seen the film and don’t want to know the plot, characters, and memorable moments, swerve this blog for now.
Saturday 3rd September 2022 was National Cinema Day and a welcome distraction from health, socioeconomic and financial worries. My go-to cinema is Picturehouse at FACT in Liverpool and seeing as it cost just £11 for four of us to see a film (we spent triple that on pizza, snacks and drinks) the decision was made to see ‘Nope’.
Directed by Jordan Peele and starring the phenomenal Daniel Kaluuya, Keke Palmer, and Michael Wincott, the rural Californian ranch setting provides the perfect backdrop for an eerie modern-day ET – but scarier. There’s so much to love. The Tarrantino-esque violence, the jumpy/comedic moments early on in the film, and Emerald Haywood’s (Keke Palmer) ENTIRE wardrobe.
I spent much of the film coveting sports jerseys and desert boot combos while crushing my partner’s hand as figures moved in the dark. Which is telling as the entire film was shot in the day light.
This isn’t an alien film. It’s a real mash-up of emotions, relationships, modern-day financial strain, and the ‘money shot’ that contemporary media is based on. Get the shot, go viral, and make the money, right?
Daniel Kaluuya is sensational. A grieving young man who is passionate and loyal to his family name and his dad’s legacy. His sister Emerald by contrast is brash, loud, confident, and savvy. Their sibling connection is a beautiful thing to watch. While OJ (Daniel Kaluuya) battles with continuing the family business while facing financial ruin, Emerald is utilising her diverse skillset to face the weirdest extraterrestrial threat I’ve laid eyes on since Alien. If Emerald Haywood is the new Ripley, I’m here for it.
A word of warning, once you’ve experienced Nope, you’ll never look at a lone cloud in the sky the same way again.
It’s brutal, emotional, inspirational and wild. Go for the ‘alien’ stay for the heart warming sibling connection, courage and soundtrack.
You can stream Nope via Now or Amazon Prime, now.
Kate Reilly James 