A24’s ‘Heretic’ Explores Faith and Fear in a Gripping Psychological Thriller

The film, starring Hugh Grant in his first horror role, examines belief and doubt through the lens of a tense abduction story.

‘Heretic,’ written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, follows two young Mormon missionaries trapped in the home of a sinister scholar played by Hugh Grant.
The movie blends horror and dark comedy while tackling complex themes of faith, doubt, and the human need for belief systems.
Hugh Grant delivers a chilling performance as Mr. Reed, a manipulative and pop culture-obsessed antagonist, marking a departure from his usual roles.
Lead actresses Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, both raised Mormon, praised the film’s nuanced portrayal of religion and the collaborative directing style of Beck and Woods.
The film has been well-received critically and has become a financial success for A24, standing out in a competitive season of genre releases.