A24’s Most Controversial Horror Film is Now Available for Streaming on Netflix

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Hereditary.

Ari Aster’s 2018 horror film, Hereditary, has become a polarizing cornerstone in contemporary cinema. While the film received mixed reactions during its theatrical run, its recent addition to Netflix has reignited interest among viewers eager to delve into this acclaimed piece produced by A24. Upon its release, the film garnered substantial attention, positioning itself as a modern horror classic that intrigued audiences seeking a unique cinematic experience.

Despite its ability to deliver chilling moments and a captivating narrative, Hereditary split audience opinions sharply, firmly placing it among A24’s most talked-about films. Nonetheless, its notoriety enhanced its popularity, suggesting it will likely become one of Netflix’s top offerings.

Hereditary Now Streaming on Netflix: A Look at the Horror Movie’s Premise

An Intense Exploration of Familial Grief and Demonic Possession

The film tracks the journey of the Graham family, consisting of mother Annie, father Steve, son Peter, and daughter Charlie, as they navigate the aftermath of Annie’s mother, Ellen Leigh’s funeral. Shortly after this event, Annie attends a support group, revealing her strained childhood and tumultuous relationship with her mother. Meanwhile, Peter is begrudgingly tasked with caring for his sister Charlie during a high school party. Tragedy strikes when Charlie has an allergic reaction and is horrifically decapitated by a telephone pole during the frantic drive to the hospital.

The loss profoundly fractures the family unit, leading Annie to seek solace in a séance to connect with Charlie’s spirit. However, this act inadvertently summons Paimon, the Demon King, with plans to possess Annie and Peter. Compounding the horror, it is unveiled that Ellen was involved in a secretive Satanic cult orchestrating these tragic events to summon a host for Paimon.

Why Hereditary Sparks Division Despite a 90% Rotten Tomatoes Score

A Film of Artistic Merit with a Divide Between Critique and Audience Reception

Leading up to its premiere, Hereditary received glowing reviews from critics, who likened it to horror masterpieces such as The Exorcist and Rosemary’s Baby. The film boasts an impressive 90% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, achieving a remarkable financial success, generating $87.8 million from a mere $10 million budget, as documented by Box Office Mojo. However, audience reception diverged significantly with a score of 71% on Rotten Tomatoes and a D+ on CinemaScore.

Given the independent nature of A24, it’s unsurprising that Hereditary resonated more with critics than mainstream audiences. The film runs 127 minutes and unfolds at a methodical pace, focusing on psychological suspense rather than the quick jolts typical of Hollywood horror. It delves into dark themes regarding unresolved grief and familial dysfunction, resulting in a harrowing viewing experience.

Nevertheless, the film’s capacity to convey a unique narrative surrounding sorrow, trauma, and fate intertwines with some of the most memorable horror sequences in contemporary film. In conclusion, Hereditary transcends the labels of its genre, emerging more as an art-house film than a conventional horror blockbuster; consequently, its nuanced storytelling may not resonate with every theater-goer. Yet, its unsettling and profound exploration of human flaws solidifies its appeal, particularly among horror enthusiasts now discovering it on Netflix.

Source:
AV Club,
Box Office Mojo,
CinemaScore,
Rotten Tomatoes

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