Get Out: Talking Points For Parents And Teens

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Post on Mar 22, 2025

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Get Out: Talking Points for Parents and Teens

Jordan Peele's Get Out isn't your typical horror film. It's a masterful blend of social commentary, suspense, and psychological thriller that sparks crucial conversations about race, class, and the insidious nature of microaggressions and systemic racism. This makes it an excellent film for parents and teens to watch together, followed by a thoughtful discussion. This guide provides talking points to facilitate a meaningful conversation after viewing Get Out.

Understanding the Horror Beyond the Jumpscares

Get Out is terrifying, yes, but its scares run deeper than simple jump scares. The true horror lies in the subtle yet chilling portrayal of the Armitage family's manipulation and Chris's growing unease. Discuss with your teens:

• The Power of Suggestion and Microaggressions: Analyze the seemingly innocuous comments and actions of the Armitage family. How do these seemingly harmless behaviors contribute to Chris's growing sense of discomfort and dread? What examples of microaggressions can your family identify in everyday life?
• The "Othering" of Chris: Explore how the Armitage family subtly attempts to erase Chris's identity and individuality. How do they try to control his experience and perspective? Discuss how this relates to broader societal issues of othering and marginalization.
• The Co-option of Black Culture: The film cleverly satirizes the performative allyship often displayed by white liberals. Analyze Rose's seemingly progressive views and how they contrast with the deeply unsettling reality of the situation. Discuss the complexities of race relations and the potential for well-intentioned actions to cause harm.
• The Significance of the "Sunken Place": This terrifying visual metaphor represents a loss of agency and control, a feeling many marginalized groups can relate to. How does this concept resonate with your teens? What situations might trigger similar feelings of powerlessness?

Beyond the Screen: Real-World Connections

Get Out is not just a horror movie; it's a mirror reflecting uncomfortable truths about race and society. Use the film as a springboard to discuss these important issues with your teens:

• Systemic Racism and its Manifestations: The film highlights the systemic nature of racism, showcasing how seemingly individual actions are connected to larger societal structures. Discuss different forms of systemic racism and their impact on individuals and communities.
• The Importance of Allyship: How can your family actively support and uplift marginalized communities? What actions can be taken to combat racism and prejudice in everyday life?
• Recognizing and Addressing Microaggressions: Discuss how to identify and address microaggressions, both when they are experienced and when they are witnessed. Emphasize the importance of speaking up against injustice, even in seemingly small ways.
• Building Empathy and Understanding: Encourage open and honest communication about race and other sensitive topics. Emphasize the value of perspective-taking and actively listening to different viewpoints.

Facilitating a Meaningful Conversation

To make the most of your post-movie discussion, remember to:

• Create a Safe Space: Ensure everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
• Active Listening: Pay attention to what your teen is saying, and ask clarifying questions.
• Empathy and Understanding: Show empathy towards your teen's perspective, even if you don't agree with everything they say.
• Open-Ended Questions: Encourage thoughtful responses by asking open-ended questions rather than yes/no questions.

Get Out offers a powerful opportunity for parents and teens to engage in a meaningful and crucial conversation about race, identity, and the complexities of the human experience. Use these talking points as a guide to facilitate a discussion that will not only help your teen understand the film but also broaden their understanding of the world around them.