Few filmmakers have made an impact on modern cinema quite like Ari Aster. In just a handful of films, he hasn’t just redefined what horror can be – he’s stretched beyond genre altogether. Whether he’s exploring grief, trauma or psychological decay (or even mommy issues), Aster crafts unsettling experiences that linger long after the credits roll.
With “Eddington” now added to his filmography, it’s the perfect time to revisit his work.
4. “Beau Is Afraid” (2023)
“Beau Is Afraid” is overlong and pretentious. At the same time, it still contains everything that makes Aster’s work so compelling.
This isn’t just a film; it’s a fully realized world. Aster crafts a surreal examination of anxiety, showing the universe through the eyes of a man plagued by deep psychological wounds.
Even with a 179-minute runtime, it’s hard not to be absorbed by the ride.
You may not like “Beau Is Afraid.” But it’s impossible to ignore. It’s a film that demands attention and commands respect.
3. ‘Eddington‘ (2025)
“Eddington” is a chaotic, genre-bending satire that holds a mirror to America’s fractured identity. From COVID-19 to political extremism, the film tackles heavy themes with irreverent humor and social commentary.
While the film’s tone is constantly shifting, Aster leans into the absurdity with confidence. It’s is messy by design – mirroring the characters and country within.
Phoenix leads a stacked cast, including Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone, and Austin Butler. Their performances elevate the wild narrative, though not every subplot lands.
“Eddington” won’t work for everyone, but that’s part of the point. As time passes, it’s bound to become a cult classic.
2. ‘Midsommar’ (2019)
“Midsommar” is one of the best breakup stories ever told. It explores toxic relationships, self-identity and familial trauma in ways that hadn’t been touched in the horror genre before.
Florence Pugh (Dani) delivers a career-defining performance, portraying an array of emotions amidst unthinkable tragedy. She elevates the film alongside standout turns from Jack Reynor (Christian), Will Poulter (Mark), William Jackson Harper (Josh), and Vilhelm Blomgren (Pelle).
Aster’s visual flair remains – this time drenched in sunlight. His signature camerawork transforms daylight into terror.
“Midsommar” is as intellectually rich as it is disturbing. It’s ambiguous and direct at once, a modern masterpiece that just narrowly trails “Hereditary.”
1. ‘Hereditary’ (2018)
“Hereditary” is a tour de force in the horror genre. It’s also an incredibly compelling family drama. It delivers a relentless barrage of grief and tragedy before barreling into pure terror in the final 30 minutes.
Toni Collette (Annie) gives an Oscar-worthy performance, with strong support from Alex Wolff (Peter), Milly Shapiro (Charlie) and Gabriel Byrne (Steve).
Aster’s visual prowess is on full display with slow pans, creative transitions and lingering shots that build unshakable tension. Combined with a dreadful score, the atmosphere becomes unbearably intense.
“Hereditary” isn’t just a standout horror film. It’s an all-time classic.
Final Thoughts
What makes Aster’s films so effective isn’t just the horror. It’s the humanity that lies underneath it. Whether you’re left stunned, shaken, confused or devastated, his stories challenge you to feel something.
In a cinematic landscape full of safe choices, Aster’s bold creativity sets him apart – no matter the genre.
