Hereditary (2018) Review in 2025
A family's dark past is uncovered after the death of their matriarch, leading to a descent into madness and terror.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for families due to mature themes, graphic content, and disturbing imagery.
CineReview Recommendation
Hereditary is a must-see for fans of horror and drama, but be warned: it's not for the faint of heart. Watch in a well-lit room with a strong stomach.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows the Graham family as they deal with the death of their grandmother, Ellen, and the revelation of a dark family secret that leads to a series of supernatural events and a tragic conclusion.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a slow-burning, atmospheric descent into madness and terror, with a complex and unsettling plot that explores themes of grief, trauma, and family secrets.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Toni Collette is particularly impressive, bringing a depth and nuance to her character that is both captivating and heartbreaking.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with standout performances from Toni Collette and Alex Wolff. However, some characters feel underutilized and lack depth.
direction9.50/10
Ari Aster's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for atmosphere and tension. The pacing is deliberate and unsettling, building to a shocking and disturbing conclusion.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a muted color palette and a focus on natural lighting that adds to the overall sense of unease and discomfort.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Hereditary is a masterclass in atmospheric tension, with a complex and unsettling plot that explores themes of grief, trauma, and family secrets. The cast is superb, with standout performances from Toni Collette and Alex Wolff.
Cons
Some characters feel underutilized and lack depth, and the pacing can be slow and deliberate. However, these minor quibbles are far outweighed by the movie's many strengths.
Notable Quotes
"'I'm not a vegetarian because I love animals. I'm a vegetarian because I hate plants.'"
"'You're not a monster. You're a monster.'"
