Comparing Horror Masterpieces: Hereditary vs. Midsommar

As a seasoned SEO expert, I often find myself engaged in discussions about the best horror films. Recently, I revisited two notable entries in the genre: Hereditary (2018) and Midsommar (2019). Both films, directed by Ari Aster, offer unique takes on the genre. Here, I provide a detailed comparison of these two films, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and crowd appeal.

Hereditary (2018)

Hereditary is a tense and haunting psychological horror that plunges viewers into a labyrinth of fear and suspense. The film follows the Graham family, who begin to experience bizarre and terrifying events after the death of their grandmother. Upon watching Hereditary at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, I noticed that it takes a while for the truly unsettling moments to arise. The opening hour, while filled with brutally honest and dark elements, can feel rather tedious and grim.

The audio and visual effects in Hereditary are notably bland and repetitive. The film often relies on a pulsating bass sound that dominates the soundtrack, making the tense moments overly loud and predictable. This continuous barrage of sound can overwhelm the audience and drain the emotional impact. However, everything changes when the plot picks up speed and the stakes become higher. Despite the initial lull, the film culminates in a swift and chilling climax that leaves a lasting impression.

Midsommar (2019)

Midsommar, on the other hand, is a more refined and complex piece of horror. Ari Aster's second feature delves into the psyche of its characters with a masterful touch. From the very first scene, the strange and eerie elements of the film are introduced, building a webs of suspense that pull the audience deeper into the narrative. The film's non-supernatural approach makes it even more terrifying, as it explores plausible and terrifying scenarios that could be carried out by real individuals.

The musical score and audio effects in Midsommar are significantly improved over Hereditary. The music enhances the tension and atmosphere without overpowering the film. The final outcome is a more engaging and immersive experience that keeps the audience on edge until the very end.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Both Hereditary and Midsommar offer a unique and chilling experience, but they take different paths to achieve their goals. Midsommar provides a fresh and complex plot that keeps the audience intrigued and engaged. It is a more polished and nuanced film that stands the test of time, as evidenced by its critical acclaim and lasting impression on viewers.

Personal preference plays a significant role in these comparisons. I, for one, find the best horror shows to be those without the supernatural. The Bender’s episode of Supernatural is a prime example of a narrative that relies on human psychology and behavior to instill fear and terror. A psychopathic family like the one depicted in The Bender’s is far more frightening than any supernatural entity, as the threat is grounded in the reality of human behavior and potential.

Ultimately, every horror film has its own merits and weaknesses. For those who appreciate psychological horror and complex narratives, Midsommar might be the better choice. If you prefer a more straightforward and supernatural approach, Hereditary is still a compelling and thought-provoking film.

What do you think? Have you seen either of these films, and which one do you prefer?