Lights Out: Hereditary Redefines Horror.
Introduction
Horror movies, for many, are a rollercoaster of jump scares, creepy crawlies, and the cathartic thrill of screaming into the darkness. But what happens when a film transcends the cheap thrills and delves into the profound, disturbing depths of human experience? What happens when the monster isn’t just lurking in the shadows, but festering within your own family? Ari Aster’s Hereditary isn’t just a horror film; it’s a masterclass in psychological terror that has redefined the genre, leaving a long-lasting impact on both filmmakers and audiences alike.
Forget the masked slashers and supernatural entities of yesteryear. Hereditary introduces a different kind of evil, one rooted in familial dysfunction, inherited trauma, and the creeping suspicion that our destinies might be predetermined by forces beyond our control. The film follows the Graham family as they grapple with the death of their secretive matriarch, unraveling a web of dark secrets and ancient rituals that slowly consume them.
The Short-Term Shock: A Visceral and Unsettling Experience
The initial impact of Hereditary was nothing short of seismic. Critics lauded its sophisticated storytelling, masterful direction, and powerhouse performances, particularly from Toni Collette, whose portrayal of Annie Graham is a raw, heartbreaking descent into madness. Audiences, however, were more divided. While some hailed it as a modern masterpiece, others found it deeply disturbing, even traumatic.
The film’s power lies in its slow-burn approach. It doesn’t rely on jump scares or cheap thrills; instead, it builds tension gradually, creating an atmosphere of palpable dread that permeates every scene. The violence, when it arrives, is shocking and visceral, but it’s the emotional brutality that truly lingers. Hereditary forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about family, grief, and the potential for darkness within ourselves.
This immediate impact led to intense discussions online, dissecting the film’s symbolism, hidden meanings, and its overall message. The film became a cultural touchstone, sparking debates about mental health, the nature of evil, and the power of cinematic storytelling.
The Long-Term Legacy: Shifting the Landscape of Horror
Beyond the initial shock and debate, Hereditary has had a profound and lasting impact on the horror genre, paving the way for a new wave of sophisticated and psychologically driven films. Here’s how:
- Elevated Horror is Born: Hereditary is often credited as a key film in the “elevated horror” movement. This subgenre focuses on complex narratives, character-driven stories, and explores deeper themes such as trauma, grief, and social commentary. Other examples include The Babadook, It Follows, and The Witch. These films prioritize psychological terror over cheap scares, appealing to a more discerning audience.
- Focus on Familial Trauma: The film’s exploration of intergenerational trauma and the insidious ways it can manifest has become a common theme in contemporary horror. Filmmakers are now more willing to delve into the dark side of family dynamics, using horror as a lens to examine complex and often painful relationships.
- Emphasis on Practical Effects and Atmosphere: While CGI has its place, Hereditary showcases the power of practical effects and meticulous set design in creating a truly unsettling atmosphere. The film’s use of miniature models, unsettling sound design, and deliberate camera movements all contribute to a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. This has inspired other filmmakers to prioritize atmosphere and practical effects over relying solely on CGI.
- Breaking Genre Conventions: Hereditary defied many traditional horror tropes, subverting expectations and keeping audiences guessing until the very end. The film’s unconventional narrative structure and ambiguous ending challenged viewers, forcing them to actively engage with the story and interpret its meaning. This willingness to break from formula has encouraged other filmmakers to take risks and push the boundaries of the genre.
Navigating the Aftermath: Coping with the Impact of Hereditary
While Hereditary‘s impact on the horror genre is undeniable, the film’s intense and disturbing nature can be overwhelming for some viewers. So, how can you cope with the aftereffects of watching such a psychologically challenging film? Here are a few practical solutions:
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: Don’t dismiss your emotional response to the film. If you feel anxious, disturbed, or even traumatized, acknowledge those feelings and allow yourself time to process them.
- Talk It Out: Discuss the film with friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can help you make sense of the film’s themes and work through any emotional distress it may have caused.
- Engage in Self-Care: After watching a film like Hereditary, it’s important to prioritize self-care activities that help you relax and de-stress. This could include taking a warm bath, listening to music, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness.
- Watch Something Lighthearted: Counteract the darkness of Hereditary by watching a comedy, a feel-good movie, or something completely unrelated to horror. This can help shift your focus and alleviate any lingering anxiety.
- Limit Your Exposure: If you’re particularly sensitive to horror films, consider limiting your exposure to the genre or being more selective about the types of horror you watch. Research films beforehand and be aware of trigger warnings if necessary.
Alternative Approaches: Finding Your Comfort Zone
Not everyone enjoys the intensity of Hereditary, and that’s perfectly fine. There are plenty of other ways to experience horror without being overwhelmed:
- Explore Different Subgenres: Horror is a diverse genre with something for everyone. If psychological horror is too intense, try exploring other subgenres like creature features, slashers, or supernatural horror.
- Watch with Friends: Watching a scary movie with friends can make the experience less intimidating and more enjoyable. The shared experience can provide a sense of comfort and camaraderie.
- Read Horror Literature: Books can be a less visceral way to experience horror. You can control the pace and intensity of your reading, allowing you to gradually acclimate to the story’s themes.
- Start with Classics: Ease yourself into the genre by watching classic horror films like Psycho, The Exorcist, or Halloween. These films are often less graphic and more suspenseful than modern horror.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel: Embracing the Evolution of Horror
Hereditary may have disturbed and challenged audiences, but it also pushed the boundaries of what horror can be. It demonstrated that horror can be more than just cheap thrills and jump scares; it can be a powerful tool for exploring complex emotions, confronting uncomfortable truths, and sparking meaningful conversations.
The film’s legacy is a testament to the genre’s ability to evolve and adapt, to reflect our deepest fears and anxieties in new and innovative ways. While Hereditary‘s intensity may not be for everyone, its impact on the horror landscape is undeniable. It has opened the door for a new generation of filmmakers to create bold, thought-provoking, and genuinely terrifying films that will stay with us long after the lights come up.
So, while Hereditary might have left you shaken, remember that its impact has enriched the horror genre, offering us more diverse and meaningful cinematic experiences. Embrace the evolution, explore the darkness, and find the horror that resonates with you. The journey might be unsettling, but the destination is a world of cinematic possibilities.