When it comes to blending family drama with bone-chilling horror, Hereditary by visionary director Ari Aster is a standout. Released in 2018, this film takes the elements of a drama, horror, and mystery thriller and mixes them into something uniquely disturbing. My movie review will guide you through just why this film is on the must-watch list for anyone who loves a good scare.
So, what exactly dives headfirst into the abyss with this one? The plot follows the Graham family, whose quiet life is shattered after the death of the family's secretive grandmother. This isn't your average ghost story—oh no. It's a descent into madness, grief, and some truly mind-bending occurrences. Ari Aster crafts a story that explores how tragedy and trauma weave their sinister threads until everything you thought you knew is flipped upside down. It's introspective, it's dark, and it doesn't pull punches—making it a truly unique element in cinema analysis.
And oh, the performances! Where do I start? Let’s talk about Toni Collette. If an Oscar-worthy performance wasn't on your bingo card, surprise! Her portrayal of a mother trying to hold her sanity together is nothing short of mesmerizing. Alex Wolff, Gabriel Byrne, and Milly Shapiro bring their A-game, rounding out a cast that knows exactly how to leave an impact—not to mention the eerie cinematography that embraces the shadows and the silence. With Aster’s direction and a screenplay that plays out like a dark waltz, it’s the recipe for scenes that stick in your memory like gum under a movie theater chair.
But how does Hereditary measure up against its ghastly siblings in the horror genre? It’s the creepy cousin of films like The Witch and The Babadook, offering atmospheric tension rather than cheap jump scares. While it nods to classics like Rosemary’s Baby and Don't Look Now, its originality lies in its well-crafted unpredictability—much unlike your typical horror flick. This film critique wouldn't be complete without acknowledging its unique flavor of horror that goes straight for the psyche, setting it apart in a crowded genre.
If you're someone who craves the thrill of the unknown and doesn't shy away from dark, sometimes unsettling tales, Hereditary is your cinematic soulmate. It's a movie breakdown experience you don't want to miss—whether you're huddled alone or braving it with friends. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and brace yourself for a journey into one of the best drama horror movies of our time. Trust me, this is a film critique you'll want to share with friends afterwards!