American director Ari Aster really honed his skills through a series of compelling short films before making a major splash with his first full-length feature. Hailing from New York, Ari Aster pursued his passion for storytelling by studying filmmaking at the prestigious AFI Conservatory in Los Angeles. It was there that he created his thesis film, “The Strange Thing About the Johnsons” (2011), which quickly went viral and sparked intense discussion. The film’s unsettling exploration of incest and sexual abuse, combined with Ari Aster’s bold choice to center an African-American family, fueled widespread controversy and debate.
Even after this early success, Ari Aster continued to explore complex narratives through more short films like “Munchausen” (2013), starring Bonnie Bedelia, as well as “The Turtle’s Head” (2014) and “C’est La Vie” (2016). These projects helped solidify his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to delve into dark, emotionally charged territory. Then came his breakthrough moment: “Hereditary” (2018), a chilling horror film written by Ari Aster himself and led by powerhouse performances from Toni Collette and Gabriel Byrne. The story, focusing on a family haunted by mental illness and a legacy of disturbing deaths, received glowing reviews and became an unexpected box office success.
Building on that momentum, Ari Aster delivered another critically acclaimed film with “Midsommar” (2019), a psychological thriller starring Florence Pugh and Will Poulter. Once again, Ari Aster proved his mastery in crafting deeply unsettling atmospheres wrapped in striking visuals. With each project, Ari Aster has pushed the boundaries of genre storytelling, establishing himself as one of the most distinctive voices in modern cinema.
When it comes to Ari Aster’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Dream Scenario (2023) as Ari Aster’s highest rated movie. It really stands out in Ari Aster’s body of work, showcasing his unique storytelling style and emotional depth. On the other hand, looking at the lower end of the spectrum, Death of a Unicorn (2025) tends to receive more mixed or less enthusiastic reviews, making it Ari Aster’s lowest rated film so far. Of course, opinions can vary, but when you look at overall ratings and audience reception, this seems to be the general consensus around Ari Aster’s projects. Still, even in his less celebrated works, Ari Aster brings a distinct vision that keeps people talking.