The Role of Fate and Free Will in Hereditary A Closer Look

In the realm of psychological horror, few films have stirred the intellect and emotions quite like Ari Aster's "Hereditary." This 2018 film, which delves into the complex themes of grief, loss, and family dynamics, also raises a captivating inquiry into the interplay of fate and free will. As viewers follow the terrifying journey of the Graham family, they can’t help but ponder the existential questions that arise: are we simply pawns in the hands of destiny, or do we wield the power to shape our own lives? Through the lens of hereditary trauma and dark familial secrets, "Hereditary" compellingly examines this dichotomy, making it a rich subject for analysis.

The Weight of Heredity

At the heart of "Hereditary" lies the concept of hereditary influence, where the past clings to the present like a shadow. The film opens with the death of the family matriarch, Ellen, who carries with her a labyrinth of dark secrets. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that these secrets not only haunt her descendants but also dictate their fates. The characters’ struggles with mental illness and emotional instability raise questions about whether their turmoil is a result of fate or a consequence of their choices. The notion that trauma can be inherited suggests that the characters are bound by a predestined path, dictated by the actions and resolutions of their ancestors.

The Illusion of Free Will

With each subsequent event in the film, particularly the death of specific characters, we witness the gradual unraveling of the Graham family. This descent into chaos can be viewed as a chilling manifestation of what happens when free will is ultimately an illusion. Annie, the mother, struggles with grief; her attempts to forge a new path for her family are thwarted by external forces tied to her bloodline. Even as she tries to exercise her free will, she finds herself continually drawn back into the web of fate that has been spun by her ancestors. This haunting cycle raises thought-provoking questions about accountability and the sense of agency we feel in our choices when significant external factors loom overhead.

The Hereditary store: A Symbol of Legacy

The "Hereditary store," a term that may remind fans of the film's merchandise or accompanying content, can be viewed as a metaphor for the legacies passed down through generations. Just as one might purchase items from a store, we often inherit traits, behaviors, and unresolved conflicts from our family lineage. The items in this metaphorical store serve as reminders of our connections to our ancestors, from which we can draw both strength and trauma. When the characters in "Hereditary" confront their inherited darkness, they are also faced with an opportunity for change and self-discovery. The film illustrates that while we may carry the burden of our heritage, it is through our actions and decisions that we can begin to reshape our identity.

Conclusion: Navigating the Tension of Fate and Free Will

The film "Hereditary" leaves its audience in a state of contemplation regarding fate and free will. The intertwining of hereditary trauma and the individual quest for autonomy reveals the complexities of the human experience. While the characters are undeniably influenced by their family's past, they still grapple with the consequences of their choices, indicating that both fate and free will play significant roles in shaping their destinies. Ultimately, Aster masterfully illustrates that the journey of self-discovery and the struggle against inherited influences is not just a horror film trope but a profound examination of what it means to be human. The haunting legacy of the Graham family serves as a reminder that while fate may chart our course, it is we who must navigate the turbulent waters of our existence and seek to define ourselves amidst the shadows of our ancestry.