The latest film from A24, Heretic, premiered Thursday at the 38th annual AFI Fest at the renowned TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The event saw the film’s creators, writer-directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, alongside stars Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East, engaging with the audience and sharing insights about the film’s development.
Plot and Characters: A Journey of Faith and Doubt
Heretic follows Sister Barnes (played by Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East), two young missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their mission to share their faith brings them to the home of Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), a seemingly lighthearted man who initially welcomes their visit. However, what begins as a friendly conversation quickly evolves into a complex psychological test of faith. Mr. Reed, knowledgeable and articulate, presents information that begins to challenge the young missionaries’ beliefs, drawing them into an unsettling and thought-provoking dialogue.
A Fresh Approach to Horror: Ideas as the Source of Terror
Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for their innovative work on A Quiet Place (2018), once again challenge traditional horror conventions in Heretic. Unlike typical horror films, Heretic relies not on gore or jump scares but on disturbing ideas and philosophical confrontations to create a tense, eerie atmosphere. Beck explained at AFI Fest, “After A Quiet Place, which used cinematic techniques to create tension, we wanted to see if we could generate fear through discussion and ideas alone. Heretic grew from that idea.”
Hugh Grant’s Riveting Performance as Mr. Reed
Hugh Grant’s portrayal of Mr. Reed is both captivating and chilling. He never directly mocks the missionaries but instead presents arguments that cause even the most faithful to reconsider their beliefs. Grant’s performance as a seemingly kind yet subtly unsettling figure is a testament to his skill as an actor, reminding audiences of his wide-ranging talent. The actor charmed the audience with his trademark humor at the AFI Fest, saying, “Hollywood Boulevard has always been a lucky place for me,” before stepping into his character’s haunting persona.
Timely Themes in an Era of Polarization
Heretic resonates with contemporary audiences by addressing themes of ideological conflict and doubt. In a world where belief systems often drive societal divisions and political choices, the film’s focus on faith and persuasion feels especially relevant. Beck and Woods’ screenplay raises questions about the role of faith and conviction in a world increasingly divided by ideology, adding a layer of social commentary to the film’s suspenseful atmosphere.
Powerful Performances by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East
Thatcher and East bring depth to their roles as Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton, two young women who must confront their deepest convictions in the face of doubt. Their portrayals highlight the struggle between holding onto their faith and confronting the unsettling truths posed by Mr. Reed. Both actresses deliver powerful performances that add emotional depth and humanity to the story, capturing their characters’ internal conflict and resilience.
A24’s Latest Cinematic Triumph
With Heretic, A24 has again crafted a film that challenges genre conventions and delivers a powerful viewing experience. Scheduled for nationwide release on November 8, Heretic promises to leave audiences reflecting on the story and its questions long after they leave the theater. In a time dominated by instant streaming and binge-watching, Heretic stands out as a compelling film that truly lingers in the mind.