"Heretic": A Darkly Humorous Exploration of Faith, Fear, and Hugh Grant's Charismatic Villainy

Directed by: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods
Rating: 8.5/10

“Heretic,” directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the writer behind “A Quiet Place,” is a film that effectively combines the elements of horror, dark humor, and theological debate, ultimately creating a narrative that challenges both its characters and viewers. The film follows two young Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East), who inadvertently find themselves embroiled in a sinister game after knocking on the wrong door, hoping to share the Gospel. That door belongs to Mr. Reed, portrayed by the ever-charismatic Hugh Grant, whose magnetic presence elevates the entire film.

From the get-go, “Heretic” builds its unique tone and atmosphere with a conversation about condoms and sex, humorously juxtaposed against the backdrop of the missionaries’ earnest mission. A cheeky line written on a chair reads, “Who says size doesn’t matter,” instantly signaling that the film will not shy away from taboo subjects. This juxtaposition of youthful innocence and the raw realities of human sexuality sets the stage for a film that is as much about self-discovery and faith as it is about horror. This opening scene may serve as a comedic introduction and as a harbinger of the satirical and campy route that the filmmakers would want to venture. This invites the audience to brace themselves for a cinematic experience that is both absurd and thought-provoking, or in this case, faith-provoking.

As the film progresses, it delves into the heavy themes of faith, belief, and the nature of religions. To some viewers, the dialogue-driven format may overwhelm theological discussions, especially when expectations are set for traditional horror tropes like cheap jump scares and grotesque imagery. Instead, “Heretic” opts for a more clever approach, playing with dialogue to explore the existential questions of which religion is true and whether God exists, and I think this is where the true horror happens; it’s not the idea of religion that is horrifying, but people’s obsession with it to the point that religion is being prioritized over humanity. This decision may alienate viewers, mainly traditional religious viewers, who are seeking conventional horror surprises. Still, it elevates the narrative by forcing audiences to engage with the material on a deeper level. This is why I suggest going into this film with little knowledge of what it is about.

A24

The true anchor that really holds this film to the ground is Hugh Grant’s chilling performance as Mr. Reed. As someone who has been following Grant from the early 90s to the 00s, who’s mostly known for his charming roles in romantic comedies, this film offers a refreshing take on a charming and repellent character. Grant’s charisma makes the film exceedingly difficult to dislike his character outright; even as he embodies the archetypal antagonist, Grant’s nuanced portrayal is filled with subtle gestures and a disarming smile that masks the predatory nature of his character. This creates a chilling atmosphere that resonates throughout the film, and this performance stands as one of Grant’s best, showcasing his versatility and ability to immerse himself in a role similar to his previous film but also challenging his established on-screen persona. The tension he brings to the film is palpable, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the moral complexities of his character.

While the film’s exploration of religion and faith may come across as blasphemous or offensive to some, it is precisely this audacity that underscores the beauty of filmmaking. “Heretic” encourages viewers to confront their own beliefs and question the narratives they have been taught. It is a bold move that aligns with the essence of horror as a genre---challenging societal norms and personal convictions. Through their clever exchange of dialogue that pits faith against skepticism, the film allows the audience to reflect on their own blind adherence to beliefs, effectively mirroring the internal struggles of its characters. The screenplay, embellished with clever writing and sharp dialogue, is one of the film’s standout features. The film’s third act is a bit of a stretch, falling short of delivering a satisfying resolution. However, the screenplay’s strengths and direction can easily overshadow this.

Overall, “Heretic” is a daring film that challenges conventions and invites viewers into a dialogue-driven horror that transcends mere entertainment. “Heretic” may not reach the same heights as the modern classic like “Hereditary”; the film effectively carves out its own identity through its blend of dark humor, philosophical inquiry, and psychological tension. The film’s clever writing and Grant’s stellar performance create a unique cinematic experience that sets itself out amongst the crowded horror genre. It invites audiences not just to witness a story of survival but to engage in an exploration of faith and morality that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling in cinema, proving that true horror lies not only in what we see but in what we believe and how we confront those beliefs. In a world where faith can often be a source of division, the film serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning and the beauty of discourse, making it a compelling watch for those willing to engage with its themes.