In a world where religious horror movies often take the existence of the Devil or Antichrist as a given, "Heretic" stands out by cleverly making the debate around faith a central part of the horror. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the film follows two Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton, as they encounter a charming yet sinister man, Mr. Reed, who challenges their beliefs and puts their lives in jeopardy.

Captivating Theological Debate and Chilling Manipulation

Charming Facade, Sinister Intentions

What begins as an act of kindness, with Reed inviting the missionaries inside to shelter them from the rain, quickly takes a dark turn. As the girls suspect Reed's nefarious intentions, the audience is drawn into a captivating game of cat and mouse, where the charming facade of the 64-year-old Hugh Grant slowly peels away to reveal a manipulative and sociopathic individual.The film's clever writing highlights the parallels between the disarming charm of romantic comedy protagonists and the sinister nature of Reed's actions. Grant's performance effortlessly transitions between the affable, nice-guy persona and the increasingly unsettling, controlling behavior, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Debating Faith and the Illusion of Choice

As the story unfolds, Reed engages the missionaries in a theological debate, drawing parallels between the social niceties and routines of faith and the illusion of choice. He challenges the girls' beliefs, offering them options that are not truly choices at all, and exposing the underlying power dynamics at play.The film's exploration of faith is nuanced and thought-provoking, avoiding a simplistic portrayal of either the believers or the skeptic. Barnes and Paxton's responses to Reed's provocations reveal the complexities of their own beliefs, with Barnes being more adept at countering his claims and Paxton exhibiting a more trusting, impressionable nature.

Tense Sequences and Narrative Craftsmanship

Heretic maintains its suspenseful atmosphere through well-crafted sequences in which the missionaries attempt to signal for help or escape their predicament. The filmmakers skillfully set up elements early on that pay off later, demonstrating their narrative prowess.Despite the film's confined setting, with only three characters in a single location, the tension and pacing never falter. The performances, particularly Grant's chilling yet captivating turn, and the overall craftsmanship of the film contribute to its ability to engage and unsettle the audience.

Exploring the Thin Line Between Charm and Sociopathy

Heretic's central theme explores the thin line between charm and sociopathy, a concept that is particularly relevant in the context of romantic comedies. The film's examination of how charming men can manipulate and pressure women into doing things they don't want to do, while still maintaining a veneer of likability, is a thought-provoking commentary on societal norms and the dangers of overlooking red flags.The film's secular approach ensures that the narrative is not about condemning any particular faith, but rather about the universal human experience of being confronted with manipulation and the need to navigate complex moral and ethical dilemmas. Heretic's provocative exploration of these themes, combined with its engaging storytelling and strong performances, make it a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and those interested in the intersection of faith, power, and human nature.A24 will release Heretic in theaters on November 8, offering audiences a captivating and unsettling cinematic experience that challenges their perceptions and leaves a lasting impression.