Genuine Review of the 2018 Horror/Mystery Film 'Hereditary'

"Hereditary," directed by Ari Aster and released in 2018, is a psychological horror film that has quickly cemented itself as a modern classic in the genre. The movie stars Toni Collette, Gabriel Byrne, Alex Wolff, and Milly Shapiro, and it delves into the devastating effects of grief and trauma within a family. "Hereditary" combines supernatural elements with intense emotional drama, creating a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking experience that leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

Plot Summary:

The film begins with the death of Ellen Leigh, the matriarch of the Graham family. Her daughter Annie (Toni Collette), a miniature artist, struggles with feelings of ambivalence and unresolved issues toward her mother. As Annie, her husband Steve (Gabriel Byrne), and their children Peter (Alex Wolff) and Charlie (Milly Shapiro) attempt to cope with the loss, they begin to experience increasingly bizarre and terrifying occurrences.

Charlie, the peculiar and reclusive younger daughter, starts exhibiting strange behavior, and her death in a tragic accident profoundly affects the entire family. Annie's grief spirals into obsession as she delves into her mother's mysterious past, uncovering dark secrets and a sinister legacy that threatens to consume them all. As the supernatural presence grows stronger, the family is pulled into a nightmarish descent that blurs the lines between reality and madness.

Visual and Technical Aspects:

"Hereditary" is visually striking, with cinematography by Pawel Pogorzelski that captures the film's eerie and oppressive atmosphere. The use of wide shots and slow pans creates a sense of unease, while the intricate miniature models crafted by Annie serve as a metaphor for the characters' manipulated and controlled lives. The film's color palette, dominated by muted tones and shadows, enhances the feeling of dread and foreboding.

The practical effects and makeup work are highly effective in depicting the film's more gruesome moments, adding to the visceral impact of the horror. The sound design and Colin Stetson's haunting score play crucial roles in building tension, using dissonant sounds and unsettling music to keep the audience on edge.

Character Development and Performances:

Toni Collette delivers a powerhouse performance as Annie, capturing the character's complex emotions and gradual descent into hysteria with remarkable intensity. Collette's portrayal of Annie's grief, guilt, and growing terror is both heartbreaking and terrifying, making her one of the most memorable characters in recent horror cinema.

Alex Wolff as Peter gives a convincing and raw performance, depicting a young man grappling with immense guilt and fear. His character's journey from typical teenager to someone haunted by unimaginable horrors is portrayed with authenticity and depth.

Milly Shapiro's portrayal of Charlie is haunting and enigmatic, with her character's unsettling presence lingering even after her death. Gabriel Byrne's understated performance as Steve provides a grounding force amidst the chaos, though his character's role is more subdued compared to the others.

Themes and Reflections:

"Hereditary" explores several profound themes, including the impact of generational trauma, the complexities of familial relationships, and the inevitability of fate. The film delves into how unresolved issues and hidden secrets within a family can manifest in destructive ways, both emotionally and supernaturally.

Annie's struggles with her mother's legacy and her own role as a mother highlight the theme of inheritance, not just of possessions, but of psychological burdens and curses. The film suggests that the characters are trapped by forces beyond their control, whether it's their lineage or the supernatural influence that pervades their lives.

The depiction of grief in "Hereditary" is raw and unflinching, showing how each family member copes with loss in different, often destructive ways. The film's horror elements serve to amplify these emotional struggles, making the supernatural aspects feel like extensions of the characters' inner turmoil.

Critique and Unique Elements:

"Hereditary" stands out for its willingness to push the boundaries of horror, combining psychological depth with visceral scares. Ari Aster's direction is meticulous, crafting a narrative that unfolds slowly but relentlessly, drawing the audience into the Graham family's nightmarish reality. The film's pacing allows for a gradual build-up of tension, making the climactic moments all the more impactful.

However, some viewers may find the film's deliberate pace and focus on psychological horror challenging, especially if they are expecting a more traditional horror experience. The complex narrative and the ambiguity of certain plot elements may also leave some questions unanswered, which can be both intriguing and frustrating.

Despite these potential drawbacks, "Hereditary" is a unique and bold entry in the horror genre, distinguished by its strong performances, particularly Toni Collette's, and its exploration of deeply unsettling themes. The film's ability to blend emotional drama with supernatural terror makes it a standout, offering a horror experience that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.

Conclusion:

"Hereditary" is a masterful horror film that transcends the genre's conventions, delivering a story that is both emotionally resonant and genuinely terrifying. With its compelling performances, particularly from Toni Collette, and its haunting visual and auditory design, the film creates an atmosphere of relentless dread and suspense.

Ari Aster's directorial debut showcases his talent for crafting intricate and disturbing narratives, making "Hereditary" a must-watch for fans of horror and psychological thrillers. The film's exploration of grief, trauma, and the dark legacies within families offers a rich and layered viewing experience, ensuring that "Hereditary" will be remembered as a modern classic in horror cinema.