Hugh Grant's latest film, Heretic, is making waves as it hits theaters and earns him another Golden Globe nomination. The psychological horror story, directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, marks a significant stylistic shift for the actor known for romantic comedies like Notting Hill. Grant's portrayal of Mr. Reed, who tackles themes of faith and skepticism, has captivated audiences and critics alike since its release on January 3, 2025.
The film follows two young Mormon missionaries, played by Chloe East and Sophie Thatcher, who visit Mr. Reed under the pretense of discussing faith. What they encounter is far from what they expected; instead of welcoming them with open arms, Reed presents them with psychological terror. The atmosphere is taut with tension as the three characters engage in a disturbing game within Reed's home.
Initial reviews for Heretic have been overwhelmingly positive, with The New York Times referring to Grant's smile as "diabolical." Critics have noted how this film slips seamlessly between claustrophobia and horror, making the audience question their own beliefs. On FilmAffinity, the film currently holds 49 positive ratings against only one negative, showcasing its strong reception. The plot promises not just horror but also intellectual engagement, echoing historical debates around faith.
Grant's subtlety as Mr. Reed—who appears nice and genial at first—quickly reveals darker intentions. He is portrayed as a sadistic atheist willing to go to any lengths to undermine the missionaries' faith. This radical departure from his past roles appears to resonate with viewers, making the film not only frightening but deeply unsettling.
Grant shared his surprise at receiving the Golden Globe nomination through social media platform X, tweeting, "Massive thanks to the Golden Globes for so warmly welcoming a blatant gate crasher," affirming the film's unexpected acclaim. Speaking to the evolution of his roles, he remarked, "Every actor really prefers it. It's always tempting for an actor to play the bad guy." With this nomination, Grant continues to redefine his career, making clear his desire for more complex characters.
This latest entry is part of what critics are dubbing Grant's "villain era," offering him more layered roles compared to his earlier days as the charming rom-com heartthrob. His newfound penchant for darker characters has created fascinating discussions about the appeal of villainy, not just for actors but for audiences who view their complex narratives.
The intertwining of horror and analysis of belief systems makes Heretic more than just another horror flick. It serves as commentary on the nature of faith itself, inviting discussion rather than just fright. The film beckons audiences to explore their vulnerabilities and perhaps even their own beliefs as Reed challenges the missionaries at every turn.
Despite the horror's tremendous potential for thrilling moments, some reviewers pointed out areas where the film stumbles, particularly during its third act, where the narrative becomes more conventional. Yet, the underlying themes and intriguing characters continue to draw viewers back, as Grant's performance captures their attention with every line.
The film grapples not only with the idea of belief but also with the constructs around it, leading viewers on twists and turns as they navigate the conflict between the missionaries' faith and Reed's challenges. Grant's transformation from laughable romantic to calculating antagonist raises questions about the nature of trust and deception, making Heretic both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Hugh Grant's remarkable ability to captivate audiences with his charm carries over even as he treads the darker waters of cinematic storytelling. Heretic stands out not only as a horror film but as a representation of Grant's artistic evolution, underlining the potential for genre film to provoke deep reflection.
With the Golden Globe nominations approaching, grant's seventh nomination looms large. It brings back memories of his first nomination for Four Weddings and a Funeral back in 1994, showing how the actor continues to engage and evolve throughout his career. The mix of excitement over the nominations and the film's premiere sets the stage for audiences eager to explore the duality of Grant's cinematic identity.
While Heretic dives deep, the future looks bright for Grant as he continues to embrace the challenges and thrills complex characters bring. Viewers eagerly await what this iconic actor will explore next, after this provocative and electrifying chapter in his storied career.