For horror enthusiasts who were captivated by Ari Aster’s bone-chilling masterpiece Hereditary, finding similar movies that deliver the same level of psychological terror and family trauma can be challenging. This curated list explores films that share Hereditary distinctive elements: atmospheric dread, family dynamics, psychological horror, and supernatural elements that will leave you questioning reality long after the credits roll.
1. Midsommar (2019)
Another Ari Aster creation, Midsommar shares Hereditary’s meticulous attention to detail and exploration of grief. While trading dark interiors for sun-drenched Swedish fields, it maintains the same unsettling atmosphere and psychological depth. The film follows a group of friends visiting a remote Swedish village, where ancient pagan rituals turn their vacation into a waking nightmare.
2. The Babadook (2014)
Like Hereditary, The Babadook masterfully explores the relationship between parent and child while dealing with grief and mental health. Jennifer Kent’s directorial debut follows a single mother struggling with her son’s fear of a monster from a mysterious children’s book. The psychological horror elements and exploration of maternal relationships echo Hereditary themes.
3. The Witch (2015)
Robert Eggers’ period horror film shares Hereditary focus on family disintegration and religious themes. Set in 1630s New England, The Witch follows a devout family banished from their community as supernatural forces tear them apart. The slow-burning tension and focus on family dynamics make it a perfect companion piece to Hereditary.
4. It Follows (2014)
While different in plot, It Follows captures the same sense of inescapable doom that permeates Hereditary. The film’s unique premise about a supernatural entity passed through intimate encounters creates similar levels of paranoia and dread. The atmospheric horror and clever cinematography will appeal to Hereditary fans.
5. The Others (2001)
This gothic horror film starring Nicole Kidman shares Hereditary focus on maternal relationships and hidden family secrets. Set in a foggy mansion during World War II, The Others builds tension through atmosphere rather than jump scares, leading to a devastating revelation that rivals Hereditary shocking twists.
6. A Dark Song (2016)
This lesser-known gem focuses on grief and occult rituals, much like Hereditary. The story follows a woman who hires an occultist to perform a months-long ritual to contact her dead son. The attention to ritual detail and growing sense of unease mirror Hereditary supernatural elements.
7. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
A classic that influenced Hereditary, Rosemary’s Baby explores themes of motherhood, cults, and paranoia. The film’s focus on a young mother’s growing suspicion about her neighbors and her own pregnancy creates psychological horror that feels timeless.
8. Kill List (2011)
Ben Wheatley’s genre-bending film shares Hereditary ability to shock viewers with sudden violence and occult elements. What begins as a crime thriller evolves into something far more sinister, with a final act that rivals Hereditary notorious ending.
9. The Dark and the Wicked (2020)
This recent addition to the horror genre explores similar themes of family curse and inherited evil. Set on a remote farm, the film follows two siblings returning home to care for their dying father, only to encounter a malevolent presence that shares similarities with Hereditary Paimon.
10. The Taking of Deborah Logan (2014)
While utilizing found footage format, this film shares Hereditary exploration of possession and family trauma. The story of a woman’s descent into what appears to be Alzheimer’s disease becomes something far more sinister, creating similar feelings of helplessness and dread.
11. Lake Mungo (2008)
This Australian mockumentary shares Hereditary’s ability to create profound unease while exploring themes of grief and family secrets. The film investigates the mysterious events surrounding a teenage girl’s drowning, building to revelations that will haunt viewers long after watching.
12. We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)
Though not strictly horror, this psychological thriller shares Hereditary’s exploration of maternal relationships and family trauma. Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of a mother grappling with her son’s disturbing behavior creates similar feelings of dread and inevitability.
13. Saint Maud (2019)
Rose Glass’s directorial debut shares Hereditary interest in religion, isolation, and psychological deterioration. Following a hospice nurse whose religious devotion takes a dark turn, the film builds to a shocking conclusion that will satisfy fans of Hereditary finale.
Why These Films Stand Out
What makes these movies similar to Hereditary is their commitment to psychological horror over cheap scares. They share common elements such as:
- Deep exploration of family dynamics and generational trauma
- Strong emphasis on atmosphere and mounting dread
- Complex character studies focusing on grief and mental health
- Supernatural elements that serve larger thematic purposes
- Shocking moments that feel earned rather than gratuitous
For viewers who appreciated Hereditary sophisticated approach to horror, these films offer similar experiences that prioritize psychological terror over traditional horror tropes. Each brings its unique perspective to the genre while maintaining the high standards set by Aster’s modern classic.
Also Read:
