Hereditary

Hereditary is a chilling dive into family trauma and dark secrets, but it often gets lost in its own philosophical ambitions. While it packs some serious scares, it spends too much time tangled in its own web of confusion.

A Family’s Dark Secrets

In Hereditary, the Graham family is thrust into chaos after the death of their secretive matriarch, Annie. As Annie's children, Peter and Charlie, grapple with their grief, they uncover disturbing legacies tied to their family's past. The film explores themes of loss, mental illness, and the burden of family history, as they encounter increasingly terrifying supernatural occurrences. Their lives spiral into madness as they confront dark rituals and a demonic legacy, leading them toward an unsettling fate. The narrative intricately weaves between psychological horror and familial dysfunction, which ultimately leaves audiences questioning the sanity of its characters.

Strong Performances, Mixed Impact

Toni Collette delivers a standout performance as Annie Graham, capturing the torment of a grieving mother spiraling into madness. Her portrayal is genuinely unsettling and carries the weight of the film. However, Alex Wolff as Peter sometimes feels overshadowed, lacking the emotional depth needed to fully engage with his character's turmoil. Milly Shapiro’s role as Charlie is intriguing but underdeveloped; her scenes are chilling yet leave us wanting more context about her character's motivations. The supporting cast, including Gabriel Byrne as Steve, provides necessary grounding but often feels like they are left to the sidelines as the focus remains heavily on Annie.

Bold Choices, Sluggish Pacing

Ari Aster's direction is bold and ambitious, employing long takes and atmospheric tension to build unease. The visual style often complements the story's psychological depth, with unsettling imagery and disorienting camera angles. However, the pacing can drag, especially in the first half, where the slow buildup feels tedious rather than suspenseful. The film’s use of light and dark contrasts heightens the horror elements, but some scenes are overly drawn out, leaving the viewer yearning for more decisive action. The intricate set designs, particularly the dollhouse, are visually striking but can feel like ornate distractions at times.

Unease Mixed with Frustration

Watching Hereditary is a haunting experience, one that often leaves you feeling uneasy and disoriented. The film’s slow burn can provoke boredom as it unfolds its narrative, leading to frustration in its drawn-out moments. While the emotional weight of family trauma is palpable, scenes of heightened tension can feel excessive, bordering on melodramatic. Some viewers may find themselves more confused than invested as the plot veers into surreal territories. Yet, those who stick with it are rewarded with moments of genuine horror that stick with you long after the credits roll.