Story
Directed by Ari Aster in his feature film debut, **Hereditary** is a 2018 horror film that quickly became a landmark in the genre. The film stars Toni Collette as Annie Graham, a miniature artist who is struggling with the recent death of her secretive and mentally ill mother, Ellen. Collette’s performance has widely been regarded as a tour de force, earning praise for her ability to convey the deep psychological trauma and intense emotional experiences her character undergoes. The ensemble cast also includes Gabriel Byrne as Annie’s husband Steve, Alex Wolff as their son Peter, and Milly Shapiro as their daughter Charlie.The plot intricately weaves themes of family secrets, inherited trauma, and supernatural forces. After Ellen’s death, bizarre and terrifying events begin to unfold within the Graham family. Annie finds herself delving into her mother’s mysterious past, uncovering frightening truths that manifest in increasingly dangerous ways. As the story progresses, the family members find themselves ensnared by a terrifying destiny they seem powerless to escape. The film’s slow build-up to an explosive finale keeps viewers on edge, utilizing psychological horror more than jump scares to cultivate a deep, lingering fear.Hereditary was well-received by critics and audiences alike, and it performed robustly at the box office. Toni Collette’s performance was particularly lauded, earning her numerous nominations and wins during the awards season, including a Gotham Award for Best Actress. The film itself has also been recognized for its screenplay and direction, cementing Ari Aster’s reputation as a promising director in the horror genre. The film’s cinematography and music also play crucial roles in its eerie and unsettling atmosphere, making it a comprehensive work of art that resonates with horror aficionados and casual moviegoers alike.
