Ari Aster Wrote a Prequel for “Hereditary”. Here’s Why It May Never Come Out

Ari Aster, who emerged as a significant voice in contemporary horror with his debut feature film, ‘Hereditary’, has recently revealed his thoughts on exploring the film’s universe further with a prequel. While Aster acknowledges the existence of a script for this new project, he believes that the timing for its production is not yet right.

Aster’s 2018 film, which features an exceptional performance by Toni Collette as a woman grappling with the aftermath of her mother’s death, uncovered a dark web of family secrets and psychological turmoil. Since its release, ‘Hereditary’ has earned a revered status among horror aficionados, and Aster’s subsequent works, including ‘Midsommar’ and ‘Beau Is Afraid’, have continued to provoke thought and discussion in the genre.

During a recent Q&A session following a screening of ‘Hereditary’ at American Cinematheque’s Bleak Week, Aster expressed that although he has drafted a prequel, he remains uncertain about its placement in the current cinematic landscape. “I wrote a prequel to this. It never feels like the right time. It’s a prequel, not a sequel, so I don’t know where this goes,” he noted, suggesting that the lure of diving back into this haunting narrative is bittersweet.

The director shared his admiration for ‘Hereditary’, stating that it still resonates deeply with audiences. In his view, recent projects have not achieved the same level of acclaim. “Every movie I’ve made since has felt like diminishing returns as far as their reception is concerned,” he lamented. However, he felt a sense of joy and gratitude towards the enduring appreciation for ‘Hereditary’. “You want something to last. It’s great… more people come up to me and say they love this film more than any of the others,” he remarked, highlighting the film’s lasting impact.

Since its release, ‘Hereditary’ has seemingly influenced the horror genre and inspired other filmmakers. Aster was pleasantly surprised to hear the film’s stylistic and thematic echoes in newer works. He commented on how he crafted ‘Hereditary’ with a nod to classic horror narratives, mentioning that he felt he was operating within a tradition, intentionally referencing films like ‘Rosemary’s Baby’.

The director also discussed his positioning within the so-called “elevated horror” movement, a term often associated with filmmakers like Jordan Peele and Robert Eggers. Aster expressed disdain for this label, contending that it inaccurately suggests a divide between his films and the broader horror genre. “I hate the term elevated horror, especially because it’s sort of a box that I was put in,” he stated, insisting that he never sought to delineate his work from that of other horror creators.

Keeping with the tradition of horror, Aster emphasised that he draws from various influences, acknowledging that other films, such as ‘The Witch’, share similarities with his approach. This sense of interconnectedness among filmmakers is something he values, as it underscores the communal nature of storytelling within the genre.

As Aster looks both to the past and the future, the prospect of a prequel for ‘Hereditary’ lingers in the air, waiting for the right moment to come to fruition. For now, he continues to engage with audiences who are eager to discuss his work and the complex themes woven throughout the fabric of his storytelling.

In the interim, Aster is focused on bringing to life his latest project, a Western thriller titled ‘Eddington’, which suggests his commitment to exploring various narratives beyond the horror genre. His evolution as a filmmaker remains a point of interest as he navigates a career marked by both critical and commercial achievements.

Ultimately, Ari Aster’s reflections on ‘Hereditary’ and the horror genre reveal a nuanced understanding of his role as a creator, one who remains dedicated to crafting films that resonate with audiences while staying true to the genre’s roots. As fans await his next move, the conversation surrounding horror, its influences, and its evolution continues to thrive.