Heretic (2024)

Wow! Wow! Wow!! Heretic is a mind-bending rollercoaster that’ll leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about faith, reason, and Hugh Grant’s ability to give you the hebie-jeebies. This A24 gem, directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, is a theological thriller that packs a punch and doesn’t pull its punches.

The story follows two young Mormon missionaries, Sisters Barnes and Paxton, who knock on the wrong door and end up trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the enigmatic Mr. Reed, played by a deliciously sinister Hugh Grant. What starts as a simple door-to-door visit quickly spirals into a battle of wits and beliefs that’ll have you on the edge of your seat, biting your nails, and questioning your own convictions.

Grant’s performance is nothing short of spectacular. He’s traded in his charming British rom-com persona for something far more menacing, and boy, does he nail it! His Mr. Reed is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, all smiles and politeness on the surface, but with a razor-sharp intellect and a darkness that’ll make your skin crawl. It’s a career-defining role that showcases Grant’s range and proves he’s got more tricks up his sleeve than we ever imagined.

The young leads, Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, hold their own against Grant’s tour de force. Their portrayal of the missionaries is nuanced and compelling, showing the struggle between unwavering faith and creeping doubt as they face increasingly harrowing trials. The chemistry between the three actors crackles with tension, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that’ll have you squirming in your seat.

Beck and Woods’ direction is tight as a drum, ratcheting up the suspense with each passing minute. They’ve crafted a visual feast that’s both beautiful and unsettling, using the confined space of Reed’s house to create a sense of inescapable dread. The cinematography by Chung-hoon Chung is nothing short of breathtaking, with each frame meticulously composed to heighten the psychological horror.

The script is a masterclass in dialogue-driven tension. It’s witty, sharp, and loaded with philosophical depth that’ll keep your brain buzzing long after the credits roll. The writers aren’t afraid to ask big questions about the nature of belief, the power of doubt, and the foundations of morality. It’s like if Dostoevsky and Hitchcock had a baby, and that baby grew up to make horror movies.

Now, I’ve got to warn you, this isn’t your typical jump-scarefest. Heretic is a slow burn that rewards patience with a payoff that’ll knock your socks off. The pacing might test some viewers, but trust me, it’s worth it. Every seemingly innocuous conversation is laden with subtext and foreshadowing that’ll have you piecing together the puzzle right up until the jaw-dropping finale.

The production design deserves a special shout-out. Reed’s house is a character in itself, filled with religious artefacts and symbols from various faiths that add layers of meaning to every scene. It’s like a twisted funhouse mirror reflecting the characters’ inner turmoil.

As for the soundtrack? It’s subtle but effective, building tension without ever overpowering the performances. There are moments of silence that speak volumes, punctuated by bursts of sound that’ll make you jump out of your skin.

Heretic isn’t just a movie; it’s an experience that’ll stick with you. It’s the kind of film that sparks heated debates over drinks after the show. Whether you’re a believer, an atheist, or somewhere in between, this movie will challenge your perceptions and leave you questioning what you hold dear.

In a world of cookie-cutter horror flicks, Heretic stands out as a thought-provoking, spine-tingling masterpiece that elevates the genre to new heights. It’s a perfect storm of stellar performances, razor-sharp writing, and masterful direction that comes together to create something truly special.

So, do yourself a favour and catch Heretic on the big screen. It’s a wild ride that’ll have you laughing, gasping, and maybe even praying. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking over your shoulder the next time someone knocks on your door. This is one heretical experience you won’t want to miss!