Ari Aster, the acclaimed writer and director behind the horror hits 'Hereditary' and 'Midsommar', shares his fascinating approach to blending art house aesthetics with gore. He discusses the influences of childhood on his storytelling and the emotional weight of familial dynamics in his films. Aster dives into the crucial role of music in 'Hereditary', detailing his collaboration with composer Colin Stetson. He also reflects on the legacy of horror classics like 'Carrie' and the unique emotional depth found in David Lynch's works.
Ari Aster creatively blends comedy with horror, revealing deep anxieties in family dynamics through his films Hereditary and Midsommar.
Aster critiques the term 'elevated horror', arguing that meaningful horror narratives have existed long before contemporary definitions emerged.
The metaphor of the dollhouse in Hereditary symbolizes the family's lack of agency, enhancing themes of control, trauma, and emotional resonance.
Deep dives
Ari Aster's Unique Perspective on Horror
Ari Aster views his films, Hereditary and Midsommar, through the lens of comedy, despite their horror elements. He emphasizes that both films reflect deep anxieties and complexities inherent in family dynamics and relationships. Aster highlights his childhood obsession with horror, particularly body horror, which shaped his artistic sensibilities. His fascination with the grotesque often manifested in his drawings and interests, leading to a distinctive style that merges horror with emotional depth.
The Concept of Elevated Horror
The term 'elevated horror' is critiqued by Aster, who argues that ambitious horror films have always existed. He recalls classic examples such as Rosemary's Baby and Night of the Living Dead that defy the genre's often lowbrow reputation. Aster expresses frustration with the notion that horror must adhere to new definitions, suggesting instead that the genre has long been capable of artistic expression. He believes such classifications undermine the diverse landscape of horror that has included thought-provoking narratives for decades.
The Significance of the Dollhouse in Hereditary
A significant metaphor in Hereditary is that of the dollhouse, representing the characters' lack of agency. Aster envisioned the dollhouse as a reflection of the family's manipulation by external forces, enhancing the film's themes of control and trauma. This imagery culminates in the audience experiencing the family's plight as akin to being puppets in a larger, malevolent design. The intricate details of the dollhouse reinforce the film's unsettling atmosphere and deep emotional resonance.
Crafting Dread Through Technical Mastery
Aster elaborates on how much of the film's haunting atmosphere is crafted in post-production, particularly through sound design and score. He acknowledges the heavy emotional load carried by actors like Toni Collette and Gabriel Byrne, who fully committed to their roles, creating authentic performances. Aster’s meticulous planning involves shot lists rather than storyboarding, allowing for flexibility while ensuring a cohesive vision. The technical aspects of filmmaking, such as building the set, were critical to achieving the desired emotional impact on screen.
Midsommar: A Dark Comedy About Relationships
Midsommar serves as a complex exploration of relationships, framed within a darkly comedic and horror-infused narrative. Aster met the challenge of portraying a breakup's emotional landscape in a visceral manner, suggesting that the film encapsulates the profound anguish of loss. The character of Dani, who finds solace in a seemingly nurturing community, illustrates the nuances of codependency and sacrifice. Aster's intention was to present her journey not solely as horror but as a tragic fairy tale reflecting deeper emotional truths.