“It’s a simple choice that should not be made simply: belief or disbelief?” This haunting quote from “Heretic” perfectly captures the moral turmoil at the heart of this new psychological thriller. The film follows two young missionaries who, after knocking on the door of the mysterious and sinister Mr. Reed, find themselves trapped in his maze-like home–a house designed to reflect the seven levels of hell from Dante’s “Inferno.” As they navigate his deadly experiment, the pair of sisters must make life-or-death decisions guided by their faith if they hope to survive.
Hugh Grant stars as a calculated manipulator, exploring the complexities of faith, control and human vulnerability. This film kept us both on the edge of our seats, forcing us to question not just the characters’ beliefs but our own. If you’re looking for a movie that’ll make you think long after the credits roll, “Heretic” is one we highly recommend catching while it’s still in theaters.
Francine here–what sets “Heretic” apart from other religious horror films is its fresh focus on Mormonism rather than the familiar Christian and Catholic themes that often dominate the genre. In pop culture, Mormons have become a more frequent subject of conversation, seen in everything from reality show “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” to the rise of Swig soda, making the film’s decision to dive into this belief system particularly eye-catching.
Instead of relying on supernatural forces or demons, the film delves into the darker, human side of religion, commenting on how faith can be used to control and break people. By focusing on this particular belief system, the film raises questions about the power of organized faith and how it can be twisted for personal gain, without resorting to typical horror tropes.
The cinematography and sound design play crucial roles in creating the film’s unnerving atmosphere. Close-up shots during moments of anxiety draw viewers deep into the sisters’ discomfort, making every bead of sweat and nervous gulp feel personal. These intimate visual elements are paired perfectly with sound – or the lack thereof.
Profound silences during key moments make the tension almost unbearable, and when the quiet is finally broken, it feels as though the entire theater exhales. This combination of tight visuals and eerie sound design immerses viewers in an experience that keeps them on edge from start to finish.
Hayley here– alongside the immersive experience, the well-written script and pacing kept the story flowing while making the audience feel as though they were trapped alongside the sisters. Beyond simply observing, viewers become active participants in the tension. The angles and tracking shots of Grant helped to further amplify his character’s control over the situation, making his presence even more commanding.
When listing the accolades of this film, Grant’s acting cannot be pushed to the wayside either. Creating a captivating argument for why one should have belief or disbelief in faith, Grant’s ability to command a room – and the audience went well past the screen and into the theater with his monologue delivery. His performance will undoubtedly be one of the most discussed and remembered features of the film.
“Heretic” is a film that ends in theaters but lingers in the minds of its audience, sparking discussion and debates about its themes. We give it four out of five stars – worthy of a rewatch and even an after-party for viewers to converse and contemplate the many themes and questions it proposes.