It’s fair to assert that Hugh Grant’s upcoming role in “Heretic” is unlike anything we’ve seen from him before. Known for his versatility, Grant has graced our screens in a variety of roles, from family-friendly comedies like “Paddington 2”, murder-mysteries such as Rian Johnson’s “Glass Onion”, to grittier genre films like Guy Ritchie’s “The Gentlemen” and “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre”. He’s also had his fair share of time in blockbuster musicals and adventure films, notably his memorable performances as an Oompa Loompa in “Wonka” and as Forge in “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”. Now, he’s set to surprise us once again, thanks to A24 and directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods who have conjured up a new and unexpected role for him in “Heretic”.
Ever been bothered by persistent religious missionaries knocking on your door? If so, “Heretic” might just be the horror film for you. Grant takes on the role of Mr. Reed, a seemingly harmless man who invites two young Mormons into his home, only to trap them inside. What follows is a series of mind games and much more, as the unsuspecting missionaries become his captives. The indie studio has been promoting this film for some time now, and it’s not hard to see why. The latest trailer, released today, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the horror that awaits.
Choose your doors wisely in Heretic
A24
Remember the old adage about not judging a book by its cover? “Heretic” serves as a chilling reminder. The film, based on the footage released so far by A24, promises to be one of the year’s most terrifying. But don’t just take the studio’s word for it. /Film’s Jacob Hall, who reviewed the film at last month’s Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas, had almost nothing but praise for the horror flick:
“In the realm of horror cinema, it’s rare to find a film that can evoke such intense fear from simply being in a room with a man who can talk his way through anyone’s defenses. ‘Skin-crawling’ is a term often used in horror film discussions, but Grant’s performance, with its escalating pompousness, truly makes the skin twitch. It’s a powerful and unsettling piece of filmmaking.”
The eerie premise set in the most unnerving house you can imagine is the brainchild of directorial duo Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. They are known for their work on 2019’s “Haunt”, the Adam Driver-led dinosaur blockbuster “65”, and their writing contributions to the original “A Quiet Place”. While Hugh Grant might be grabbing all the headlines, he’s supported by Sophie Thatcher as Sister Barnes and Chloe East as Sister Paxton, both of whom are in for a nightmarish experience. The question of whether they survive this ordeal, and in what state, is anyone’s guess. We eagerly await the release of “Heretic” in theaters everywhere on November 8, 2024.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
