In this episode of Season of the Glitch, Kelley and Annie dive deep into Ari Aster's Hereditary, exploring its themes of folk horror, family dynamics, trauma, and the supernatural. They discuss the intricate relationships between the film's characters, occult symbolism, and the impact of grief and mental illness on family structures. The conversation also touches on the film's portrayal of childhood and the consequences of neglect, culminating in a tragic event that reshapes the family's narrative. Through a blend of analysis and personal anecdotes, the hosts reflect on the film's relevance in today's digital age and the fears that resonate within it. Also mentioned: Lowis Lowry, 90s PSA ads, D.A.R.E, and the legendary Cokie's bar.
Show Notes
Hereditary is an inversion of folk horror traditions.
The film explores personal, genetic, and cosmic loops of trauma.
Annie's character embodies the struggle of a flawed mother.
Charlie represents the complexities of neurodivergence in horror.
The miniatures symbolize the family's hidden truths and secrets.
The film's horror is rooted in familial relationships and grief.
Ari Aster's direction highlights the nuances of mental illness.
The party scene serves as a turning point in the narrative.
The film critiques the denial present in family dynamics.
The supernatural elements reflect real-world fears of losing agency.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Folk Horror and Hereditary
02:29 Exploring Family Dynamics and Trauma
05:03 The Role of Miniatures and Symbolism
08:03 Annie's Grief and Mental Health
11:05 The Funeral and Family Secrets
13:40 Annie's Miniatures and Their Significance
16:50 Parenting Challenges and Developmental Disabilities
19:32 The Support Group and Family History
22:26 Sleepwalking and the Nature of Evil
25:36 Cults and the Underlying Threats
29:35 The Unraveling of Family Dynamics
31:46 Exploring Charlie's Character and Behavior
36:23 The Impact of Parental Expectations
39:41 Teenage Struggles and Family Tensions
47:49 The Party Incident
49:27 The Aftermath of Trauma
57:30 Cultural Reflections and Humor
Keywords
Hereditary, folk horror, family dynamics, trauma, mental illness, symbolism, grief, supernatural, cult, cinema
