Ari Aster has a 'Hereditary' prequel script but doesn't know what to do with it

Ari Aster's 2018 film Hereditary is still fresh in the minds of horror fans, with its haunting portrayal of a family's descent into madness. The film's impact was clear, grossing $83 million against a production budget of $10 million. But for Aster, the success of Hereditary has also brought a new challenge: a prequel script that he's unsure what to do with.

Ari Aster recently revealed at the American Cinematheque's annual Bleak Week that he has a prequel script for Hereditary. However, he's yet to figure out what to do with it. "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 said. This uncertainty highlights the difficulties of expanding a successful film's universe without compromising its original intent.

Hereditary's initial script was detailed and clear, but Aster chose to cut it down to a more manageable length. He revealed that the original cut was three hours long, but he's happy with the final version. This approach is evidence of Aster's willingness to adapt and refine his vision, even if it means sacrificing some of the original material.

Aster's decision to cut scenes from the original Hereditary script was driven by a desire to maintain pacing and find the right rhythm. He acknowledged that a three-hour movie might be overwhelming for audiences, and the distributor would likely have been hesitant to release it in that form. By paring down the script, Aster was able to create a more focused narrative that tells its story effectively.

The existence of a Hereditary prequel script raises questions about Aster's intentions and the potential direction of the film's universe. Without a clear plan for the prequel, it's uncertain whether it will ever see the light of day. This ambiguity is a common challenge faced by filmmakers who create successful franchises, as they must balance the need to expand their universe with the risk of alienating original fans.

Given Aster's track record of prioritizing artistic vision over commercial considerations, it's possible that the prequel script will remain in limbo indefinitely. Alternatively, Aster may choose to revisit the script in the future, potentially incorporating new ideas or perspectives that have developed over time.

Hereditary's impact on the horror genre is clear, and its influence can still be felt today. As a result, Aster's uncertainty about the prequel script is not just a matter of personal preference, but also a reflection of the film's enduring legacy. Whether the prequel is ever realized, Hereditary will continue to be a benchmark for horror films, evidence of Aster's innovative storytelling and ability to craft a deeply unsettling atmosphere.

Ari Aster's hesitation to develop the Hereditary prequel script is a reminder that even the most successful films can be fraught with creative challenges. As the horror landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Aster navigates the complexities of expanding his universe, and whether the prequel script will ultimately be brought to life.