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Scott Beck and Bryan Woods' "Heretic" is a smart, gripping psychological thriller that dives deep into the nature of belief, both questioning and deconstructing it in a way that feels unsettling. The film operates on multiple levels, challenging the viewer not just with its immediate horror but with the broader implications of its story—raising existential questions about faith, the nature of truth, and the human condition. As the title suggests, "Heretic" is less about the brutal fanaticism often depicted in horror films involving religious zealots, and more about the internal horrors that accompany belief and disbelief alike.
The premise of the film is deceptively simple, following two young missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints—Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East)—who visit the home of a man named Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant). Their encounter quickly evolves from a typical theological exchange into something far more sinister, as Reed’s philosophical questions about faith become psychological traps. What starts as a discussion on belief spirals into a dangerous game that explores the fragility of faith itself. Beck and Woods manage to weave a narrative that feels reminiscent of "Saw" and "Silence of the Lambs," but with a refreshing focus on the mental and emotional stakes involved in belief systems.
Mr. Reed’s manipulations, laced with a sociopathic curiosity, pull the two sisters into a battle of wits, forcing them to confront their deeply held convictions. One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to sustain tension through dialogue, a testament to the sharpness of the script and the performances of the actors. Hugh Grant’s performance is a standout, with Reed’s character exuding a sinister charm that pulls the audience in, making him both likable and terrifying. Grant plays Reed with a dark, almost playful edge, creating a character that toys with the line between philosophical inquiry and psychological torture.
His portrayal is masterfully complemented by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, whose portrayals of the young missionaries add layers of vulnerability and strength to the film. East, in particular, shines as Sister Paxton, who, though less worldly than Sister Barnes, emerges as a compelling figure whose journey from naivety to resilience is one of the film's highlights.
The cinematography by Chung-hoon Chung enhances the claustrophobic atmosphere of the film, using tight spaces and stark lighting to trap the audience in the unsettling world of Mr. Reed’s house. The camera movements mirror the growing psychological tension, with each shadowy hallway and closed door contributing to the film’s oppressive mood. This visual style plays a significant role in maintaining the suspense, making the house feel like a character in itself—menacing and filled with secrets.
While the film stumbles a bit in its final act, as it shifts from mind games to action, it never loses sight of its core themes. "Heretic" forces the audience to grapple with questions about belief, truth, and the narratives we construct to make sense of the world. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, not because of its scares, but because of the unsettling ideas it leaves behind.
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