Watch Heretic

In the heart of a quiet, unsuspecting town, a sinister game unfolds within the walls of a seemingly ordinary house. "Heretic," a 2024 psychological horror film directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, delves into the depths of faith, doubt, and the blurred lines between the two. The film follows two young Mormon missionaries, Sister Paxton (Chloe East) and Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher), as they embark on a routine door-to-door mission. Their path leads them to the enigmatic residence of a reclusive Englishman, Reed (Hugh Grant). Initially, Reed appears to be a curious and somewhat eccentric individual, intrigued by their faith and eager to engage in theological discussions.

However, as the missionaries delve deeper into their conversations with Reed, the true nature of his intentions becomes increasingly apparent. With a chillingly calm demeanor, Reed methodically challenges their beliefs, questioning the very foundations of their faith. His words, though seemingly innocuous, carry a subtle power to sow doubt and confusion.

As the missionaries become increasingly unsettled by Reed's enigmatic presence, they find themselves trapped within his isolated home. The once peaceful sanctuary transforms into a claustrophobic nightmare, where the lines between reality and illusion blur. Reed's psychological manipulation intensifies, pushing the young women to their limits and forcing them to confront their deepest fears and insecurities.

Through a series of unsettling encounters and mind-bending conversations, Reed exposes the fragile nature of faith and the power of doubt. He skillfully exploits the missionaries' vulnerabilities, exploiting their desire for certainty and their fear of the unknown. The film delves into the psychological impact of religious indoctrination, questioning the blind acceptance of dogma and the potential for manipulation.

Hugh Grant delivers a captivating performance as Reed, embodying the character's sinister charm and intellectual prowess. His portrayal of a man who delights in the unraveling of others' beliefs is both mesmerizing and disturbing. Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East shine as the two young missionaries, conveying their characters' growing fear and confusion with authenticity.

"Heretic" is not merely a horror film; it is a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche and the power of belief. The film's atmospheric setting, coupled with its unsettling score, creates a sense of dread and unease that lingers long after the credits roll. The psychological terror that unfolds within the confines of Reed's home is far more terrifying than any jump scare or supernatural element.

While "Heretic" may not offer a definitive answer to the age-old questions of faith and doubt, it invites the audience to contemplate their own beliefs and the forces that shape them. It is a film that challenges viewers to question the unquestionable and to embrace the uncertainty that lies at the heart of human existence.

Heretic is a 2024 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.