Hereditary + introduction

Ari Aster’s debut feature film, Hereditary, is a haunting and deeply disturbing exploration of grief and inherited trauma. Following the death of their secretive grandmother, the Graham family begins to unravel as they confront the dark and sinister legacy that she left behind. 

Featuring breathtakingly intense performances from Toni Collette and Alex Wolff, Hereditary defies easy categorization as it weaves together elements of psychological horror, family drama, and supernatural thriller. Aster’s keen eye for visual storytelling and mastery of suspenseful pacing make for an unforgettable cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits have rolled. 

As the family’s descent into madness and the supernatural unfolds, Hereditary explores themes of fate, free will, and the ways in which we are shaped by our familial bonds and the events of our past. With its intricate plot and stunningly crafted visuals, Hereditary is a masterpiece of modern horror cinema that demands repeated viewings to fully appreciate its complexity and nuance. 

Introduction: 
Historian Alexander Bartels will introduce the film with a mini lecture on The Dictionnaire Infernal, a 19th century book on demonology. This book provides detailed descriptions of various demons and their attributes, organized in hierarchical order.  

About Alexander Bartels: 
Alexander Bartels (1993) is an Amsterdam-based historian and artist with a peculiar interest for high strangeness and macabre affairs. Together with Phil van Dulm, he forms the collective Wanderwelle. In a brief period, they became known for their experimental albums and live performances ranging from art galleries to Koninklijk Theater Carré. On the 3rd of June their debut film The Four Nightmares, and an accompanying video installation, will premiere at the Eye Filmmuseum. For the film Häxan, Alexander Bartels and Phil Dulm (aka Wanderwelle) will also perform a live score during the screening. Tickets for this viewing with live score are available here.