Hereditary (2018)
Following the death of the Leigh family matriarch, Annie and her children uncover disturbing secrets about their heritage. Their daily lives are not only impacted, but they also become entangled in a chilling fate from which they cannot escape, driving them to the brink of madness.
Details
Budget
$10,000,000
Rating
7/10 (7841 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
PalmStar Media, Pulse Films, Finch Entertainment, Windy Hill Pictures
About Hereditary
The 2018 film *Hereditary* explores themes of grief, family dysfunction, and supernatural horror. It centers on the Graham family as they grapple with the death of their matriarch, only to uncover disturbing secrets tied to their lineage. The narrative combines psychological suspense with elements of ritual and demonic possession, creating an unsettling atmosphere.
The film delves into the psychological toll of loss, particularly on Toni Collette's character, Annie, as she navigates her family's unraveling. As events unfold, the line between mental illness and supernatural forces blurs, leaving the family entangled in a chilling fate. Its blend of mystery and thriller elements amplifies the horror, focusing on deep-seated fears and the breakdown of familial bonds.
*Hereditary* has received strong critical reception, with a Metacritic score of 87/100 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 90%, reflecting its impact within the horror genre. The movie's exploration of ancestral curses and the nature of evil contributes to its distinctive tone.
Why you might be searching for Hereditary
People are often searching for *Hereditary* due to its intense horror and psychological depth, specifically recalling the unsettling depiction of family trauma and supernatural elements like demonic possession and satanic rituals. The film's memorable, non-supernatural scare early on, and its focus on a matriarchal figure with miniatures, also prompt searches. Viewers might look for specific scenes, like the girl being chased or the final ritual, or for explanations of its complex plot points and symbolism.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer found *Hereditary* to be style over substance, criticizing its plot as having little depth, obvious or trite reveals, and a disappointing ending after a two-hour build-up, suggesting the initial high praise might be inflated.
Read the full reviewThis film is described as a psychological horror that builds an atmosphere of looming evil, creating a palpable heaviness over two hours as family tensions and Satanic undertones contribute to a dark and isolating experience, similar to *The Witch* or *Rosemary's Baby*.
Read the full reviewA viewer noted that *Hereditary* has a lasting impact, staying with them for days after watching, and emphasized that it is not for those seeking jump scares but rewards attentive viewing with subtle hints and surprises, praising the strong performances, especially from Toni Collette and Alex Wolff.
Read the full reviewOne reviewer found the first half of *Hereditary* particularly strong, though they felt the ending was slightly underwhelming. They commended the film for creating an unsettling environment and highlighted Toni Collette's brilliant performance, along with those of Gabriel Byrne, Alex Wolff, and Milly Shapiro, for bringing believability to the plot.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
"Hereditary" is not based on a true story; it is a fictional film. Director Ari Aster drew inspiration from his own fears and family trauma, but the specific events are not real.
The film concludes with Peter becoming the host for the demon Paimon. His grandmother, Ellen, led a cult that worshipped Paimon, seeking a male host. After Charlie's accidental death, Peter becomes the target; Annie is eventually possessed and decapitates herself, and Peter, after jumping from a window, is revived when Paimon enters his body. The cult then crowns Peter, now possessed by Paimon, in Charlie's treehouse, declaring him their new king.
"Hereditary" is highly regarded by critics, holding a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 87 out of 100 on Metacritic, with many praising its unsettling atmosphere and Toni Collette's performance. Director Ari Aster intended the film to be a meditation on the corrosive effects of trauma on a family unit.