Ari Aster: The Mastermind Behind Horror's Most Unsettling Films

Ari Aster is a name that sends shivers down the spines of horror fans worldwide. As the mastermind behind two of the most unsettling films in recent memory, "Hereditary" (2018) and "Midsommar" (2019), he has cemented his place as one of the most innovative and disturbing filmmakers working today.

Ari Aster's Early Life and Education

Born on July 12, 1986, in New York City, Ari Aster grew up surrounded by the arts. His mother, Rosalie Astrin, was a producer at MTV, while his father, Tommy Aster, was an artist. This creative environment sparked an early interest in filmmaking within Aster. After graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with a degree in film animation in 2008, Aster began working as a screenwriter and editor on various projects. It wasn't until he co-directed the short film "Mister America" with Trent Harris in 2018 that his big break came.

Movies by Ari Aster

Ari Aster's feature film debut was the critically acclaimed "Hereditary" (2018). The movie follows a family reeling from the loss of their matriarch, Ellen, and her secrets begin to unravel. The film received widespread acclaim for its haunting visuals, complex characters, and unflinching portrayal of grief. Building on the success of his debut, Aster's sophomore effort was the folk horror film "Midsommar" (2019). Set in Sweden, the movie follows a group of friends who venture into the woods to attend a festival, only to find themselves trapped in a sinister and deadly game. Like "Hereditary," "Midsommar" received widespread critical acclaim for its unique visuals, unsettling atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes.

Ari Aster's Short Film

Before making his feature film debut with "Hereditary," Aster co-directed the short film "Mister America" (2018) with Trent Harris. The 20-minute film is a dark comedy that follows a man who runs for district attorney in Las Vegas, only to find himself caught up in a series of bizarre and cringe-worthy events.

Facts About Ari Aster

1. Ari Aster's Family: Growing up in a family of artists clearly had an impact on Aster's creative pursuits. His mother was a producer at MTV, while his father is an artist. 2. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD): Aster graduated from RISD with a degree in film animation in 2008. 3. Short Film: Before making his feature film debut, Aster co-directed the short film "Mister America" with Trent Harris. 4. Indie Roots: Aster got his start in the film industry working on indie projects as a screenwriter and editor. 5. Innovative Storytelling: Known for pushing boundaries in his storytelling, Aster's films often explore themes of grief, trauma, and the darker aspects of human nature. As Ari Aster continues to push the limits of horror and filmmaking, fans can't help but wonder what he has in store next. With his unique blend of unsettling visuals, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, it's safe to say that his future projects will be met with equal parts excitement and trepidation.