Eerie and eccentric, “Nope” is Jordan Peele’s 3rd directorial film after the success of “Get Out” (2017) and “Us” (2019). The film—headlined by Daniel Kaluuya, Keke Palmer, and Steven Yeun—tackles the out-of-this-world adventures of two siblings who are out to prove the existence UFOs.
Here are seven reasons why you shouldn’t quickly say “nope” to “Nope.”
1.) The Careful Storytelling
The film is a slow-burn type of movie, as Jordan Peele meticulously sets up the plot before divulging into the thrilling mystery.
2.) The “Siblings” and Their Realistic Acting
Keke Palmer’s acting (as Em) can really take you into their oddball world, while Daniel Kaluuya’s (as OJ) relaxed state takes off a lot of stress and anxiety when watching a horror film. It may not be the usual “thrill” you’re used to, but it’s a plus point if you want to breathe and chill before any jump scares.
3.) Comedic Timing
Adding the title as part of the actors’ dialogue may either be smooth or cringey. But “nope” was often delivered in the most natural way possible, during a seemingly fitting situation. Sure, you’d think “nope”—being a widely used common word—would be easy to incorporate, but the word wasn’t just thrown around. Instead, the placements were creative, comedic, and well-thought of.
4.) Steven Yeun’s Character, Jupe
“The Walking Dead” and “Minari” star Steven Yeun plays Ricky “Jupe” Park, a former child actor who witnessed the rampage of a chimpanzee named Gordy. Jupe is actually the most fleshed-out character in the film, as we witnessed his backstory, traumas and fear, and the type of person he became—all in a matter of minutes.
5.) The Cinematography
“Nope” was filmed using IMAX cameras. But it’s not just the cameras, it was the way cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema turned simple scenes into brilliant work of art—from expanding the audience’s view of the rural setting to creating gorgeous night scenes.
6.) Slow-Burn Suspense Film
With its runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes, “Nope” is pretty average when it comes to length. But the film is no action movie, and it really takes its time to grow on the viewers before reaching the plot’s climax near the ending.
7.) ALIENS
If you’re a fan of the “aliens” genre, then this one’s for you. “Nope” tackles the realistic problem of wanting to show the world a phenomenon that has yet to be proven. Plus, the overall design of the “flying saucer” would have been pretty majestic… if only it wasn’t taking in living things.
If you had the chance to film a UFO, what would you use to document it?
“Nope” can have moments where you’d space out (no pun intended), but curiosity toward the story and the ability of the actors to draw you in would make you jump back and keep your eyes on the screen. All in all, this film may not be everyone’s cup of tea. But it’s creative enough to leave a strong impression, and, well, to not say “nope” to.
“Nope” premieres in cinemas this August 17.