Heretic (2024): A Thought-Provoking Psychological Horror

Heretic is a very interesting, psychological horror that questions ideas of belief and religion. While the first 2 acts are incredibly engaging and thought provoking, the last act quickly goes downhill. What was a unique, grounded thriller becomes a little silly and more standard fare. It’s still a good movie, just not quite as great as it starts.

Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East), two Mormon missionaries, visit the home of Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant) as he has requested more information about their religion. Mr. Reed seems harmless enough, although perhaps a bit odd. It is clear he knows quite a bit about religion and is more interested in a deeper theological discussion, not just info about the Mormon faith. At first, the Sisters politely indulge him, but it soon becomes clear that Mr. Reed has something far more sinister in mind than just a discussion.

I absolutely loved the concept for this movie. At its heart, it’s very simple. It’s three people having a theological discussion that eventually becomes extremely dangerous. But while other movies would use this as a starting point for jump scares and lots of people meeting nasty deaths, Heretic is interested in the discussion. It uses historical references and questions religious stories, all in an attempt to make the Sisters (and possibly the audience) question their beliefs.

It is a dialogue-heavy film, and that may turn off some viewers who are looking for a more traditional horror movie. There’s not a lot of blood, gore, or even kills to speak of, and it rarely tries to scare you. Heretic works by maintaining a high level of tension throughout the movie. For quite some time, you’re not quite sure where the movie is headed and that keeps you on edge. Additionally, the dialogue is quite good. The theological discussion, while having a sinister undertone, raises questions about belief and doubt, and how some can surrender to faith while others need concrete answers. This is a movie that wants you to think.

While Heretic has a great concept, it’s biggest strength is the performances. Hugh Grant delivers some of his best work. He is effortlessly charming and friendly, but easily switches to creepy and menacing. He does this with small, subtle changes. He’s never showy, never angry, and always maintains an interesting balance between an outward friendliness and an underlying sense of danger. Truly a great performance.

Grant is certainly the standout, but Thatcher and East are no slouches. Each brings a unique take to their characters, with Sister Barnes being the more wary, and Sister Paxton being more naïve and open. Both easily convey the dread they feel without, once again, it being showy. No screaming, hands flailing, or excessive crying, just a quiet dread that is obvious, even as both try to maintain their composure and decorum.

The first two acts of Heretic are excellent, and this was on its way to being a top tier horror movie. The last act, however, becomes quite uneven and drags the movie down. The first parts of the movie are well grounded. Perhaps not exactly as plays out here, but the situation is realistic. It’s two women visiting a man who won’t let them leave. As the movie moves into the final act though, it starts to approach silly. Mr. Reed’s plan is unnecessarily complex, and his actions don’t always seem aligned with his plan, but rather designed to keep the audience guessing as to his ultimate objective. What was a unique take on a horror movie becomes more and more commonplace. The antagonist approaches omnipotence in his planning, while protagonists make huge leaps in logic in order to get to the next major plot point. It by no means ruins the film, but it is a letdown.

Heretic starts out as a wonderfully unique take on horror movies. One of the rare ones that has something to say and wants you to think. I was completely gripped by the story and the fantastic performances. But everything starts to fall apart in the final act. I still think it a good movie and I do recommend it. It just seems there was a lot more potential here that gets wasted, and that’s a shame. This could have been one of the greats. As is, it is merely good, but still worth you’re time.

Have you seen Heretic? Are you planning to? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.