Review: Hereditary (2018)

When it comes to horror films that leave a lasting impression, few recent entries have sparked as much conversation as Ari Aster's 2018 debut feature, Hereditary. This film manages to weave a chilling narrative that taps into deep-seated family trauma and supernatural terror. If you're a fan of horror that keeps you thinking long after the credits roll, this one might just be for you.

Plot Summary

Hereditary follows the Graham family, who begin to unravel after the death of their secretive matriarch. As they uncover more about their ancestry, unsettling occurrences begin to plague them, revealing dark secrets that suggest something far more sinister is at play. The film expertly balances family drama with horror, making you question the boundaries between reality and the supernatural. It's a story that builds tension slowly, pulling you in deeper with each scene.

Performances

One of the biggest strengths of Hereditary is its outstanding cast, led by the phenomenal Toni Collette. Her portrayal of Annie, a mother grappling with grief and unraveling family secrets, is both intense and incredibly moving. Collette delivers a raw performance that captures the complexities of her character with every expression and breakdown. Alex Wolff, playing her son Peter, also deserves recognition for his ability to convey vulnerability and fear, especially as the film progresses into darker territories. Milly Shapiro as Charlie and Gabriel Byrne as Steve round out the family, each bringing their own subtleties to the film that enhance its memorable atmosphere.

Direction and Craft

Ari Aster's direction is meticulous, with each scene crafted to maximise tension and unease. The film's visual style is striking, utilizing a muted color palette and clever framing to underscore the claustrophobic feeling of the family's plight. Aster's use of long takes and a slow-burning narrative approach allows the tension to simmer, building to a crescendo that is both shocking and thought-provoking.

The film's sound design and score, composed by Colin Stetson, contribute significantly to the unsettling atmosphere. The music is eerie and often dissonant, enhancing the sense of dread that permeates the film. The sound design, with its subtle use of ambient noises and disturbing soundscapes, is equally effective in immersing the viewer into the Graham family's world.

Collector's Verdict

For horror aficionados and collectors, Hereditary is a must-have in its Blu-ray format. The high-definition presentation captures the intricate details of its visual style, while the audio quality ensures you experience every unsettling note of the score and sound design. The Blu-ray edition also comes packed with special features that offer insight into the making of the film, including behind-the-scenes footage and director's commentary, which are treasures for any collector interested in the craft of filmmaking.

In terms of rarity, Hereditary is relatively common, making it an accessible addition to your collection. However, the quality of the Blu-ray edition, combined with the film’s impact and rewatch value, makes it a worthwhile purchase. Keep an eye out for special edition releases or box sets that might include additional content, which can sometimes pop up for limited runs.

Overall, Hereditary is a film that deserves a spot on your shelf, not only for its contribution to the horror genre but also for its impressive execution in storytelling and film craft.

Star Rating

With its chilling narrative, remarkable performances, and precise craftsmanship, Hereditary earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It's a film that offers more with each viewing, rewarding those who appreciate horror with depth and intelligence. If you're looking to expand your collection with a film that delivers both scares and substance, Hereditary is a strong contender.