People Thought This Was Scary?

I guess it all comes down to your definition of scary. Personally I found it terrifying. Not in the traditional way where cheap scares make you jump in your seat, but the overbearing feeling of dread and horror that hangs over ever scene was just so disturbing and haunting (this movie stayed with me and its images seared themselves into my mind far longer than most modern horror films). I think the Exorcist comparisons are misleading (although understandable with the subject matter), to me the film owes a lot more to Rosemary's Baby in the way that the fear and dread lies in what you DON'T see, rather than never-ending scenes of blood or gore or torture. In fact, the addition of the Joan character seems like a direct nod to Polanski's film, especially when her true motivations become apparent.

Yours seems to be the more popular opinion of the film, I've only spoken to a few people it didn't totally frustrate or bore. But I for one will never forget it and I can see it staying right near the top of the list for most accomplished horror movies I've seen.

I’m with you, man... Been a horror film fan since I was 6-7 years old. Friends who knew how much I dig 80’s horror films told me to needed to watch this film. How great it was etc. It was okay, I didn’t dislike it, but I don’t get the hype either. Maybe I’m just too jaded when it comes to new horror films. I did like that it was a slow-burner though.

Don't remember finding it scary and didn't like the conclusion for sure

"Suspenseful horror/tragedy movie with a anti-climatic ending"

The movie is full of existential dread. I think it's one of the most uncomfortable movies I ever watched. It puts a sense of terror in you with no payoff. If you're afraid of Jason, you know he's going to chop up some kids having sex. Boom! Payoff and the anticipation goes away.

In Hereditary, you don't know what's going to happen. Endless anticipation without payoff.

I did find it scary because it dealt with characters that I could relate to. I could put myself into the situations which made me very anxious. If you find jump scares frightening then this movie is not for you.

I've seen almost all the horror movies, but this is the only one that actually made me afraid to turn out the lights for a few days. I was seeing slight movements in the shadows, and my hallway felt like something out of The Shining. I think it's all about set and setting. Maybe the difference is that you saw it in the theater with a bunch of people, and I watched it at midnight by myself in an empty house? Also, mixing the family drama with horror also had a huge impact on me because many of those arguments they had were similar to some of my own family squabbles. Those family scenes drew me in, took my guard down, and then the scary parts hit me over the head hard. Already knowing the plot, I doubt you can recreate this effect at home now, but for anyone reading this who hasn't seen it yet, watch this movie by yourself in a dark place late at night, and it should leave you deeply affected.

Why don't you try and save some self respect and admit that you were suckered by the publicity and hype, which told you it was the scariest film since The Exorcist.

Oldest trick in the book dude...and you fell for it.

They could care less what you thought of it, they have your money.

Lesson learned...i hope...