Ari Aster, the acclaimed director behind the films Hereditary and Midsommar, is back in the headlines again. This time, it’s not for his latest film, but for some early sketches that have been discovered on Reddit.
The drawings, which date back to 2012, were created in the year following Aster’s short film, Beau, which would later be expanded into the critically acclaimed Beau is Afraid. While the drawings are certainly not safe for work, they do offer an interesting glimpse into the mind of a director who has become known for his ability to create work that is both terrifying and thought-provoking.

Many of the drawings feature penises and balls, which are depicted as horrifying instruments of self-destruction. This imagery is in line with the universe of Beau is Afraid, which explores the anxiety and struggles of a man, while also delving into the larger themes of Jewish identity and the relationships between mothers and sons.
While some may find the drawings shocking or even disturbing, it’s clear that Aster has a unique vision and is unafraid to explore difficult subject matter. The drawings demonstrate the power of imagination and the ability of filmmakers to create work that is both terrifying and arousing.

It’s not surprising that fans of Ari Aster are excited to see these early sketches, as they offer a glimpse into the mind of a director who has quickly become one of the most exciting and innovative voices in modern cinema. While these drawings may not be for everyone, they demonstrate the kind of creative freedom that is necessary for artists to push the boundaries of their medium and explore the depths of human experience.

In the end, it’s clear that Ari Aster is a director who is unafraid to take risks and explore difficult subject matter. Whether he’s delving into the anxiety and struggles of a man, or exploring the relationships between mothers and sons, he’s a filmmaker who is always pushing the boundaries of what we expect from cinema.