Hereditary (2024): A Haunting Return or Familiar Echoes?
Six years after the critically acclaimed original, Ari Aster returns with “Hereditary 2,” a follow-up that both honors its predecessor and treads a cautiously similar path.
The film centers on a new family, seemingly unconnected to the Grahams, who inherit a creaky old mansion with a dark history. As they settle in, cryptic occurrences and unsettling discoveries begin to unravel a web of secrets about the house and their own ancestry.
Familiar themes echo from the 2018 film: familial dysfunction, themes of grief, and a slow descent into madness. Aster retains his mastery of building dread, crafting an atmosphere thick with tension that will have you squirming in your seat. The film is impeccably shot, with unsettling imagery that lingers long after the credits roll.
However, some may find the plot developments derivative, echoing beats from the original a little too closely. The film also relies heavily on the same brand of psychological horror, which may feel predictable to those familiar with Aster’s style.
The cast delivers strong performances, with newcomer Miley Cyrus stepping into the lead role with surprising nuance. The supporting cast is equally impressive, building a believable sense of family dynamic amidst the chaos.
Is it a worthy successor?
“Hereditary 2” is a well-crafted and undeniably creepy film. While it may not reach the same groundbreaking heights as the original, it delivers a solid dose of horror that will leave you both entertained and unsettled.
If you’re a fan of slow-burn psychological horror and don’t mind echoes of the past, then “Hereditary 2” is definitely worth a watch. However, if you’re looking for something entirely fresh and innovative, you might come away feeling like you’ve seen this all before.