Heretic takes religious horror into psychological thriller territory with a simple yet sinister setup: two Mormon missionaries knock on the wrong door and meet Mr. Reed, a disturbingly erudite man played by Hugh Grant. What starts as a casual conversation soon unravels into a verbal battleground as Reed challenges the young women’s beliefs with unsettling insights into their faith. What makes Heretic gripping isn’t gore or jump scares but its dialogue-heavy tension, which twists Grant’s signature charm into a terrifyingly persuasive force.
The Plot: Thought-Provoking, Until It Isn’t
Written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods (A Quiet Place), Heretic begins as a cerebral horror that invites viewers to question not only the characters’ beliefs but their own. The early tension hinges on Reed’s calculated attacks on religion, sparking intellectual discomfort rather than cheap thrills. As he nudges the missionaries from faith to fear, viewers are caught in a suspenseful back-and-forth that holds power in its quiet exchanges. But while the film begins as a deep dive into religious ideology, it eventually caves into more familiar horror territory, sacrificing its introspective edge for a more traditional horror payoff.
Hugh Grant as the Dark Heart of Heretic
Grant’s performance as Reed is the soul of the film, a layered portrayal that walks a fine line between charm and menace. Without losing his sardonic wit, he crafts a character who’s unpredictably menacing, shifting effortlessly from affable to terrifying. His charisma lends Heretic a unique energy, making his descent into darkness both compelling and chilling. Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East as the young missionaries also shine, managing to avoid horror clichés with performances that balance fear and intellectual resilience.
Atmosphere: Engaging, If a Bit Uneven
The film’s atmosphere is subtle yet intense, and its single setting — Reed’s isolated home — becomes a character in its own right. Cinematography and lighting create a tense, almost claustrophobic environment that keeps viewers constantly on edge. But Heretic struggles with pacing, especially in its latter half, where the shift to traditional horror tropes weakens the intellectual thrust of the plot. The story’s climax is effective but slightly deflated, leaning into conventional scares rather than the high-concept tension that made the first half so gripping.
Final Thoughts
Heretic might falter in its last act, but it’s still a standout horror experience thanks to its intelligent script, haunting performances, and Grant’s powerful role as Reed. For those who crave horror with a psychological bite, Heretic is a thought-provoking entry into the genre — just expect it to wander a bit before it sticks the landing.
