Hereditary (2018)

Directed by Ari Aster, Hereditary is a groundbreaking psychological horror film that delves deep into the themes of grief, family trauma, and the inescapable influence of the past. The film is widely regarded as one of the most unsettling and thought-provoking entries in modern horror cinema, establishing Aster as a significant new voice in the genre.

The story revolves around the Graham family, led by Annie (Toni Collette), an artist who specializes in miniature sculptures. After the death of her secretive mother, the family begins to unravel as they confront hidden secrets and the impact of their ancestry. Annie lives with her husband, Steve (Gabriel Byrne), and their two children, teenager Charlie (Milly Shapiro) and young adult Peter (Alex Wolff). As the family deals with their grief, strange and terrifying occurrences begin to plague them.

Toni Collette delivers a powerhouse performance as Annie, capturing her character’s descent into madness and emotional turmoil. Collette’s portrayal of a mother grappling with loss and the growing sense of dread is both captivating and heartbreaking. The film effectively explores the generational trauma that shapes the characters, with each member of the family grappling with their own demons.

The cinematography, handled by Pawel Pogorzelski, is striking, utilizing long takes and close-ups to create an intimate yet claustrophobic atmosphere. The use of lighting and shadow enhances the film’s tension, with a haunting visual style that underscores the psychological horror at play. The film’s production design, including Annie’s meticulously crafted miniatures, serves as a metaphor for the family’s struggles and the secrets they hold.

Hereditary masterfully builds suspense through its slow-burn approach, allowing viewers to absorb the emotional weight of the characters’ experiences before plunging them into moments of sheer terror. The film’s score, composed by Colin Stetson, adds to the sense of dread, with dissonant sounds and haunting melodies that linger in the background.

As the story unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that the family’s history is intertwined with darker forces, culminating in a shocking and disturbing climax that leaves viewers reeling. The exploration of themes such as mental illness, grief, and the nature of evil contributes to the film’s emotional depth, making it more than just a standard horror narrative.

Upon its release, Hereditary received widespread critical acclaim, praised for its originality, direction, and performances. It has since garnered a dedicated following, often cited as one of the best horror films of the 21st century.

Overall, Hereditary is a haunting and powerful film that lingers in the minds of viewers long after watching. Its exploration of familial bonds, trauma, and the unseen forces that shape our lives makes it a profound and unsettling entry in the horror genre.