Dioramas of Despair: A Portrait of Grief in "Hereditary"

 

Ari Aster's 2018 film "Hereditary" transcends the boundaries of traditional horror, weaving a narrative of grief, generational trauma, and the insidious influence of the occult. The film follows the Graham family – Annie, a grieving artist, her withdrawn son Peter, and their unsettlingly stoic daughter Charlie – as they grapple with the death of their enigmatic grandmother, Ellen. As they navigate their loss, increasingly disturbing occurrences begin to plague the family, hinting at a malevolent force lurking beneath the surface of their sorrow.

"Hereditary" excels in its portrayal of emotional breakdown. Toni Collette delivers a powerhouse performance as Annie, a woman unraveling under the weight of grief and the unsettling revelations about her family's past. The film doesn't shy away from the raw and messy aspects of loss, depicting Annie's descent into despair with unflinching honesty. This emotional core resonates deeply, grounding the supernatural elements in a relatable human experience.

The film's horror masterfully builds through a sense of unease and dread. The seemingly innocuous details – the unsettling miniature dioramas Annie creates, the unsettling clicks from Charlie, and the oppressive atmosphere of their isolated house – all contribute to a mounting sense of disquiet. Aster utilizes slow-burn frights and a pervasive sense of wrongness, leaving viewers constantly on edge.

Beyond the scares, "Hereditary" delves into the complexities of familial relationships. The film explores how unresolved trauma can fester and warp family dynamics across generations. The Grahams are a fractured unit, each member grappling with their own issues and harboring unspoken resentments. The arrival of a demonic entity serves as a catalyst, forcing them to confront the darkness that binds them.

The film's exploration of the occult adds another layer to its thematic depth. References to pagan rituals and demonic possession hint at a sinister legacy lurking within the Graham family. As Annie delves deeper into her ancestry, the lines between grief and demonic influence become blurred, raising questions about free will and inherited fate.

"Hereditary" is a masterclass in slow-burn horror. With its exceptional performances, chilling atmosphere, and exploration of profound themes, the film stays with viewers long after the credits roll. It is a disturbing yet thought-provoking exploration of grief, family secrets, and the darkness that can reside within even the most seemingly ordinary of families.

Other reviews