Review of the movie Heretic. Hugh Grant's best role in an eerie thriller about the question of faith

Religion and faith in general is a topic so controversial that we can talk about it almost endlessly. For thousands of years, people have been trying to approach it and somehow comprehend it, but it is obvious that it is beyond the scope of human understanding. At least at the current stage of our development. However, this does not prevent various artists from expressing their thoughts about religion in the format of works of art for many years.

Heretic is another such attempt that initially focuses on Mormonism, but quickly develops into something more ambitious, philosophical, and terrifying. The charming Hugh Grant in an unusual role for him only enhances the effect of the film. That's why it makes an unforgettable impression.

Sister Paxton (Chloe East) and Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) are ordinary girls with their own hopes, dreams and personalities. What they have in common is that they both belong to the Mormon religion. Even the misunderstanding and condemnation of other people do not prevent them from believing and looking for new followers. The search leads them to the door of Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), who is only too happy to listen to the girls. However, under the mask of politeness, the man hides terrible secrets that will become a real test of their faith, moral principles and views on life in general for the pair of protagonists.

[caption id="attachment_261024" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Still from the movie Heretic[/caption]

Heretic starts out surprisingly light, naive, and almost cute. A conversation between two Mormon sisters about condom size and pornography - something like this could easily find its way into a more satirical film or a new installment of Scary Movie. However, don't relax, such an unobtrusive beginning is designed to lull the audience's vigilance. After all, the plot methodically and non-stop turns into hell for the main characters.

As in all great psychological thrillers and horror, the movie's script is in no hurry. However, "The Heretic" cannot be classified as a slo-burner, in which everything slowly leads to one key moment or scene. The speed and pace of the narrative are almost perfect. The authors of the film skillfully scatter hints and important moments that will definitely play key roles at the right time. There is nothing superfluous here.

[caption id="attachment_261030" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Still from the movie Heretic[/caption]

At the same time, Heretic allows itself a lot of polemics, discussions and high-flown conversations, the degree of which is also gradually increasing. From reflections on Mormonism, the story moves on to global issues of faith in the context of life, death, and the meaning of human life. Almost every phrase adds a new angle or interesting nuance to an already complex topic. Even something from Speak No Evil about the bad things that people allow and even subconsciously want to experience can be found in Heretic.

The film is quite intimate, but this did not prevent the authors from experimenting with genres. In addition to horror and thriller, Heretic has a place for a detective story, as well as a subgenre of stories about mental battles and survival games. Yes, 80% of the running time is dialogues. But even they are presented so well and in such a variety that they don't bore even at the level of the production alone.

[caption id="attachment_261028" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Still from the movie Heretic[/caption]

In chamber films, which also focus on psychology and philosophy, the choice of locations and acting are very important. With the former, Heretic is just fine. The locations, despite their simplicity, manage to gradually immerse the audience in horror. It's a Silent Hill 2 level of craftsmanship, and that's a big compliment.

But the main "star" of the movie is the acting. The characters of Chloe East and Sophie Thatcher may seem mundane and stereotypical at first glance. Thus, the script takes a rather hackneyed image of a girl of faith and then deconstructs it, using it as a prism to further examine all the strange and in some ways beautiful discrepancies between faith and harsh reality. The actresses are definitely able to surprise.

[caption id="attachment_261032" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Still from the movie Heretic[/caption]

However, even their talents fade somewhat when Hugh Grant starts talking. His antagonist is a polite, wise, and knowledgeable man with a friendly smile. In another context, he could have become a more typical Grant hero. However, in Heretic, he turns into an almost diabolical force that destroys all the dogmas and foundations of someone else's worldview with questions. And even after the credits, it will not be clear what Mr. Reed was really motivated by. The film crew has created one of the most interesting villains of recent years, and that's no exaggeration.

[caption id="attachment_261026" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Still from the movie Heretic[/caption]

The film's impact is further enhanced by good direction, but in this element, The Heretic could have done better. The direction and cinematography are a bit bland. Yes, they are standard for psychological horror and don't draw too much attention away from the characters and the story as a whole. But against the backdrop of the more interesting components of The Heretic, it seems that the authors didn't push it. Especially when some scenes start to feel drawn out or a bit unimaginative.

Heretic is able to leave a lot of uncomfortable questions in the minds and hearts of viewers to which there are no answers. Moreover, the film can evoke memories of real events. Representatives of Mormonism have already praised it for its realistic depiction of their faith. In other words, both as a work of art and as a reflection on eternal themes, The Heretic is definitely a success.