#MovieReview: Nope hits the blockbuster sweet spot

Nope is a unique and enjoyable homage to the existential extraterrestrial panic of the 50s and 60s.

The third directorial feature from Jordan Peele is probably unlike anything you would have seen before, but includes the DNA of many alien-inspired horror movies.

How rare and pleasing it is to see interesting filmmakers being given the opportunity to make blockbuster versions of unusual ideas.

Following the smash-hit success of Get Out and critical support of Us, Peele has called in all of his built-up career cachet to swing for the fences.

Peele is one of the most intriguing directors around and it is encouraging to see him get the almost blank-check support that is typically reserved for Christopher Nolan and Quentin Tarantino.

He is more than worthy of the backing, constantly delivering new perspectives on well-worn ideas that have thrilled and generated debate in equal measure.

Placing African-American actors at the centre of the frame and packing his texts with social commentary, there is no one quite like Peele currently making movies.

Superhero and fantasy movies have their place, but original idea blockbusters are so rare at the moment that it is crucial to support them so more can be made.

Mild spoilers to follow
Nope follows the Haywood family, a group of Hollywood horse trainers who get animals ready for film production.

Stuck on a ranch in remote inland California, they begin to experience inexplicable happenings in increasing frequency.

Trying to explain what is going on, the family unearth evidence of probable extraterrestrial life.

But, of course, it is not quite so simple, and given Peele’s trademark horror/thriller/comedy genre blend, Nope takes you in some unexpected directions.

There are some moments of genuine, spine-tingling horror, followed by laugh-out-loud comedy minutes later.

It makes for an exciting high-wire act that the movie largely delivers on, with a fantastic third act set piece that drives home its central themes.

What does it mean to be watched?

What is the cost of constant exposure to every horrific image and news story from every corner of the world?

How are images co-opted to creative narrative?

There is so much in this movie to debate and speak about that you could have a completely different understanding of its meaning.

What a treat it is to see something so engaging on the big screen.

The film occasionally loses grasp of its lofty ambitions and is messy at times in the last hour, but it is never boring.

Rated 16 for aspects of Horror, Violence and Language.

Rating 4/5.

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