Hugh Grant has officially shed his rom-com skin for something far more sinister. The actor, once known for charming audiences in Love Actually and Notting Hill, now delivers one of the most unsettling performances of his career in Heretic, an A24 thriller now streaming on HBO Max. With a stellar 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, this film is a gripping masterpiece that keeps you on edge from the first frame to the last.
Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, Heretic takes a unique approach to the religious thriller genre. Instead of mocking faith, the filmmakers treat the Mormon community with respect and nuance. They consulted insiders, including star Sophie Thatcher, who is an ex-Mormon, to ensure authenticity. The result is a thought-provoking story that doesn't judge believers but still delivers a tense, claustrophobic experience set entirely in one house.
The plot follows Sister Barnes (Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East), two young Mormon missionaries who visit the home of Mr. Reed (Grant), a man who claims to want to learn more about the Book of Mormon. Initially hesitant because they cannot enter a home without a woman present, the sisters are reassured when Reed says his wife is inside. But soon, the conversation turns dark, and Barnes realizes Reed is lying. He locks them in, presenting a twisted choice: one door for those who believe in God, another for those who don't. The only way out is to choose—and survive.
Grant's performance is the film's centerpiece. He plays Reed as a calm, intellectual atheist obsessed with control. His charm, honed over decades of romantic leads, becomes a weapon. He manipulates the sisters with ease, but when they defy him by staying true to their faith, his rage erupts. It's a terrifying transformation that shows Grant at his most menacing. For fans of psychological thrillers, this is a must-see, much like Criminal Minds: Evolution Season 4, which also explores the depths of human manipulation.
The film's small cast and single location only amplify the tension. Thatcher and East deliver powerful performances as young women forced to confront their beliefs under extreme pressure. Their chemistry with Grant creates a dynamic that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally frightening. Heretic doesn't rely on cheap scares; instead, it builds dread through dialogue and psychological warfare.
What makes Heretic a true masterpiece is its ambiguity. The ending is open to interpretation, leaving viewers debating long after the credits roll. It's a rare thriller that respects its audience's intelligence while delivering a satisfying, unsettling experience. For those who appreciate films that challenge their worldview, this is a standout in A24's impressive catalog, alongside other gems like forgotten sci-fi gems that are flawless from start to finish.
In a year full of strong genre entries, Heretic stands out as a must-watch on HBO Max. Hugh Grant's villain era has never been more compelling, and this film proves he is one of the most versatile actors working today. Whether you're a fan of thrillers, religious dramas, or just great performances, this is a film that demands your attention.
