The horror film Heretic, released by A24 and currently streaming on VOD services, marks a notable departure for Hugh Grant, who portrays Mr. Reed, the movie's chilling antagonist. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for their work on the widely acclaimed A Quiet Place, Heretic delivers both tension and dark humor as it navigates themes of belief and manipulation.
The narrative centers around two young Mormon missionaries, Sister Paxton (Chloe East) and Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher), who are on their quest to spread their faith. Things take a sharp turn when they arrive at the home of Mr. Reed, who appears initially warm and welcoming. "How do you feel about polygamy?" he jovially asks during what begins as seemingly harmless conversation, quickly setting the stage for moral dilemmas and manipulative tactics.
Critics noting the film's psychological underpinning compare it to works like My Dinner with Andre mixed with traditional horror elements, fostering apprehension and intrigue. According to film critic John Serba, "Things do not go well for Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton," hinting at the horrors awaiting the innocent women as they become ensnared within Reed's web.
Through compelling performances, particularly from Grant, the film challenges its characters—and viewers—to confront uncomfortable truths. The trio engages in philosophical debates interspersed with flirtation from horror. The success of Heretic hinges on how it juxtaposes the sacred with the profane, igniting conversations about faith and manipulation. Grant's portrayal allows viewers to see his character transition from charming to unsettling: "My wife is shy – but the pie? The pie is nigh!" he quips, establishing the benign facade masking his darker inclinations.
What's particularly unsettling is how Reed uses banter about faith and religion as tools of control. The early dialogues between Reed and the sisters are not just small talk; they are psychologically probing attempts to establish dominance. The film presents moments where humor meets horror, making the viewer squirm as the cheerful facade of Mr. Reed crumbles to reveal his predatory nature.
Equally noteworthy are the performances of East and Thatcher, who embody their naive characters with incredible vulnerability. Sister Paxton's naive curiosity stands alongside Sister Barnes' assertiveness, creating tension as their inability to escape from Reed’s grasp becomes apparent. The film effectively escalates from philosophical unease to outright horror, keeping viewers on edge.
Describing the psychological horror elements, critics highlight the oppressive atmosphere within Reed's home, where each new layer of conversation leads to unsettling realizations. The rooms they explore become metaphors for the entrapment of belief systems as they navigate Reed’s deeply manipulative games.
"It’s not just a horror movie; Heretic is a study of control, belief, and the fragility of innocence," states one review, underscoring how the film operates not just by scares, but by questioning the very foundations of faith. Its narrative poses significant inquiries: What makes one susceptible to belief? How does one differentiate between trust and manipulation?
Critics praise the film for its innovative approach to the genre, primarily focusing on psychological manipulation rather than heavier reliance on gore typical of horror films, which can often detract from the film’s intellectual undercurrents. Scenes involving Reed’s discussions around faith and rituals challenge the often unquestioned beliefs of those who follow established doctrines, lending greater depth to the horror experienced by the sisters.
Despite mixed feedback, the film's thematic aspirations cannot be overlooked. It raises eyebrows and incites conversations not usually entertain within the horrorscape, intertwining terror with the study of beliefs and the consequences of unchallenged faith. This thoughtful dissection of faith transforms Heretic from standard horror fare to something much more intellectually engaging.
With its mix of humor, psychological tension, and horror, Heretic stands out as a notable new entry to the genre. Hugh Grant's refreshing and menacing portrayal of Mr. Reed paves the way for discussions surrounding faith and control, demonstrating the many ways belief systems can be manipulated.
Now streaming and receiving varied reactions, it's clear Heretic is ushering Hugh Grant—and the horror genre—into exciting new territories, proving he can transcend his romantic comedy roots. This film is not just about the fear of the physical, but the psychological terrors intertwined with beliefs we hold dear.
