Some horror films rely on jump scares—Hereditary doesn’t need them. Ari Aster’s chilling debut feature is a slow-burning, psychologically devastating nightmare, anchored by one of the best performances in horror history from Toni Collette.
This isn’t just a horror movie—it’s trauma incarnate.
The Setup: A Family on the Brink
When Annie Graham’s (Toni Collette) estranged, secretive mother passes away, it should bring relief. Instead, it sets off a chain reaction of terror that tears her family apart. Her husband (Gabriel Byrne) tries to hold things together, while her son Peter (Alex Wolff) and daughter Charlie (Milly Shapiro) struggle under the weight of generational trauma, grief, and something far more sinister.
What starts as a tense family drama soon morphs into pure nightmare fuel, and once the horror kicks in—it doesn’t let go.
What Makes It Special
✔ Toni Collette is phenomenal. Her performance is raw, terrifying, and Oscar-worthy—one of the greatest in horror history.
✔ Unrelenting dread. The film seeps under your skin with its eerie sound design, unsettling cinematography, and a story that gets progressively more horrifying.
✔ Ari Aster’s direction is masterful. Every shot feels meticulously crafted, blending surreal terror with brutal realism.
✔ No cheap scares—only existential horror. This is the kind of film that leaves you speechless by the time the credits roll.
Where It Falls Short (For Some)
✖ Deeply unsettling—not your typical “fun” horror movie. This is heavy, psychological, and emotionally draining.
✖ Some moments border on surreal. The film’s final act takes a sharp turn into the bizarre, which might not work for everyone.
✖ Lingering questions. Certain plot elements remain mysterious or ambiguous, adding to the film’s unsettling nature but leaving some viewers wanting more answers.
Final Rating: 4/5 – Terrifying, Emotional, and Unforgettable
Hereditary is more than just a horror film—it’s an experience. With brilliant performances, masterful tension, and an ending that will haunt you for days, it’s a modern horror masterpiece.
But be warned: this isn’t just scary—it’s emotionally devastating.
