Separatism and Assimilation in Contemporary United States

'Get Out' (2007)

One representation of African-American identity is seen in the film ‘Get Out’. The 2017 film, released three months ago, explores the themes of separatism and aspects of assimilation.

The film depicts the story of an inter-racial couple, Chris and Rose, who visit Rose’s parents. The assimilation of African-Americans is conveyed through the wish for the integration of the inter-racial couple. Although it is predominantly a horror film, there are very clear examples of racism against African-Americans throughout. Separatism becomes a very clear theme throughout this film, where the racism that African-Americans experience, encourages them to want to separate from the white, elite community surrounding them.

From the beginning of the film, Chris questions his worth in his relationship with Rose. From the trailer alone, his self-doubt “do they know I’m black?”, expresses his fears as to whether Rose’s parents will accept him based on the colour of his skin. Rose’s response “should they?” highlights the contemporary view of those who believe in equality and assimilation.

As the film progresses, it brings to light the unfortunate, unrealistic reality of universal acceptance. On route to the parents’ house, the couple experience a racist encounter with a white, Sheriff Officer. He requests the ID of Chris, based on the colour of his skin, even though he was not driving. This is again shown in the trailer. In addition to this, it is also important to highlight the reaction or Rose’s parents to Chris and Rose’s relationship. The two appear to not take their relationship seriously and refer to the couple as a “thing”.

There is also the theme of racial subordination in the film. Within this white, elite, community, there are African-American workers who are labouring for the families. In addition, the horror theme conveys a darker racism towards African-Americans. The use of hypnosis to keep the registered ‘missing’ African-Americans working for them and living amongst the society, gave a more sinister aspect to the racism.

So far, this film has been a big success in the box office, earning a domestic $111 million already. American business magazine ‘Forbes’ has even referred to this film as bring to light ‘a devastating portrayal of race relations in America’. In the contemporary United States where there are still controversies over equality, this film is key to surfacing experiences of racism that may be otherwise be overshadowed.

Sources:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2017/03/13/get-out-is-the-movie-hollywood-and-america-needed/#7cf0a4bc3c51

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzfpyUB60YY