Hereditary

Hailed by some as “this generation’s Exorcist”…

Annie (Toni Collette) is going through a difficult time. Her mother, Ellen, who she had an equally difficult relationship with, has just passed away. After a long period of estrangement, Ellen moved in with Annie, her husband (Gabriel Byrne – The Usual Suspects) and children, as she ‘wasn’t altogether there’ near the end. Always an obstinate woman and the undeniable matriarch, her presence is still strongly felt even after her death. Things go from bad to worse when more tragedy hits the family, bringing new waves of pain, guilt, resentment and recrimination and uncovering long-buried family secrets.

Perhaps what makes this film particularly harrowing are the family members themselves; by no means perfect, just flawed human beings - hurt, angry, guilty, unsure how to deal with loss, and struggling to connect with each other. The very air seems thick with all the family can’t, or won’t, say to each other; and it’s growing... Hereditary is a masterclass in building up a palpable atmosphere of foreboding, fear and alienation. Reaching a shocking climax, this film is one that will stay with you for days after.

You have been warned!

Natalie Tyldesley-Marshall