Hugh Grant has never been as terrifying as he is in Heretic, a brilliant film that will have viewers considering their own beliefs as it explores religion as a whole.
It might be hard to believe that Heretic will not cross the line into sacrilege when you watch the trailer, but it can pull off just that. When two young female Mormon missionaries knock on the door of a man who has inquired about the church, it isn’t long before things take a dark turn. Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East both deliver incredible performances, but it is Hugh Grant who delivers his career best.
Largely terrifying because this sort of thing could actually happen, in the real world, at any time, Heretic thrusts a light on belief versus disbelief, as Grant’s Mr. Reed test the faith of these two girls. Even for those who have not watched the trailer, and go into Heretic blind, it will instantly be clear that he is a man to steer clear of. He is deeply unsettling and downright creepy.
This is one of those movies that is almost impossible to talk about without giving anything away, so I will tread lightly. Aside from the brilliant writing and unforgettable performances, the cinematography and use of certain songs is what makes this film even better.
There is one shot in particular towards the end of Heretic, that is going to have viewers smiling, even though it is during an intense moment. The attention to detail, the set-ups that are not forgotten, that is what makes this film shine and rise above others.
It is hard to base a film around faith, and lack of faith, and still have most people connect to it. Everyone, no matter how religious, has had moments where they question if they are on the right path. If they are correct in what they believe in. Heretic takes that thought and expands on it. Audiences will likely find themselves considering their own belief systems and what they would do if put in a situation like this.
Grant does such a beautiful job of embracing the disturbing aspects of his character while still keeping him grounded at times. I often found myself connecting and relating to the things he was saying, before snapping myself out of it.
Heretic is a thriller above all else, but it also weaves in quite a bit of horror elements, blending the two genres seamlessly. Somehow, I even found myself emotional in the end.
This movie is meant to be uncomfortable. It accomplishes so much, including invoking thought and discussions.
This is one that will be talked about by many for hours, days, even weeks after viewing. It may be uncomfortable for some, but I do not that think that anyone with religious beliefs will feel alienated or attacked.
Heretic is one of the best A24 films ever to be made, if not the best. Largely in part due to Hugh Grant’s performance, as well as the performances of Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East. These three are a joy to watch together, even when it is hard to look.
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About Heretic
Two young missionaries are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse.
Heretic comes to theaters on November 8.
Hugh Grant has never been as terrifying as he is in Heretic, a brilliant film that will have viewers considering their own beliefs as it explores religion as a whole.
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Tessa Smith is a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer-approved Film and TV Critic. She is also a Freelance Writer. Tessa has been in the Entertainment writing business for ten years and is a member of several Critics Associations including the Critics Choice Association and the Greater Western New York Film Critics Association.