Heretic, A24’s new horror thriller directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, features Hugh Grant in a darkly captivating role, radically shifting from his typical charming persona to embody Mr. Reed, a disturbing and insidious antagonist. The story follows two Mormon missionaries, played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, who are lured into Reed’s home, believing his welcoming nature to be genuine. As they delve deeper into the encounter, they realize they’ve walked into a twisted intellectual trap, where Reed’s theological debates devolve into a terrifying game that holds deadly consequences for any missteps they might make.
Grant’s portrayal of Mr. Reed has been celebrated for blending his characteristic charm with an underlying malevolence, drawing comparisons to classic horror icons like Vincent Price. His slow transition from a seemingly kind host to a philosophical predator creates a tension-filled experience for the audience, highlighted by his chilling, self-assured lectures on belief and doubt. Critics praise how Heretic builds its horror on dialogue and character interplay, rather than traditional jump scares, creating a claustrophobic, intellectual horror experience as Reed’s manipulations intensify.
Beck and Woods’ screenplay allows Grant’s unnerving performance to flourish, while Thatcher and East deliver depth to their roles, depicting complex, intelligent protagonists trapped in a nightmare where faith itself is challenged. While the film’s third act has been described as more sensationalist, Heretic ultimately leaves audiences with lingering questions about belief, doubt, and the dangers of blind trust, making it one of 2024’s most memorable horror entries.
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