Textual analysis exam practice (Get Out opening scene)

Point, Example, Explain, Theory (PEET)

You will need 3X paragraphs​

The first paragraph should include a brief introduction (a sentence or two), introducing the question and the set text you have chosen.​

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Each paragraph should then follow this structure:​

Point – what is the point you are making? ​

Example – where does this specifically link to the set text?​

Explain – how does it link back to the question and why? Here is when you can expand on your media language.​

Theory – what theory does this link support?

Analyse how genre conventions have been used to create meaning in a media product you have studied (12 marks)

Jordan Peel's 2017 film Get Out uses several character stereotypes to highlight the horror genre. This response will analyse how genre conventions have been used to create meaning within the film, with a main focus on the first scene. 

Get Out's opening sequence presents its horror genre with the use of camera and mise-en-scene. The film begins with tracking shots that follow the character that appears to be a black middle-aged man who is walking in a residential area. The camera tracking movement creates suspense as the character appears to be followed around. This suggests the character might be in danger. The character appears to feel uneasy as he is walking through a predominantly white neighbourhood by mentioning that he "Sticks out like a saw thumb out here" This can be portrayed with the Levi-Strauss Binary Opposition Theory because they use the stereotypes white power vs black weakness.

The Get Out opening scene also uses diegetic and non diegetic sounds to demonstrate genre conventions that create meaning. The song starts off with diegetic sounds and then the sound becomes non-diegetic as the volume increases. The music is contrapuntal feeling like a happy song but the lyrics are unsettling. The audience feels disorientated and the character feels uneasy or threatened. The word run connotes something bad is going to happen and he should run away. According to Altman's theory the fearful gut response of the audience is known as visceral pleasures.