Is Heretic the Most Thought-Provoking Horror of 2024?

The moment you think you know Hugh Grant, he flips the script. In a daring departure from his usual charm, Grant captivates audiences in Heretic, a horror film that’s already making waves in 2024. This chilling exploration of faith and fear is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, earning a stellar 91% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

Described by early viewers as a “philosophical-theological masterpiece,” Heretic blends psychological dread with unsettling theological inquiry. Set against the backdrop of a rural American religious cult, it follows two young missionaries—played by the talented Sophie Thatcher from Yellowjackets and Chloe East from The White Lotus—who find themselves ensnared in a nightmarish scenario after knocking on the wrong door.

What starts as an innocent mission visit spirals into a harrowing confrontation with faith, truth, and power, particularly through Grant’s enigmatic portrayal of the man behind the door. “Done well and shows a side of Hugh Grant that I wish we would see more of,” raved an online reviewer, while praising Thatcher’s compelling performance.

While terrifying moments unfold with sharp intensity, it’s the film’s layered script that truly sets Heretic apart. Viewers are finding themselves both frightened and profoundly moved. “Whether you’re religious or not, this film presents compelling arguments for both sides,” one viewer noted. “It’s a unique examination of faith that sticks with you long after the credits roll.”

Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the writing duo known for A Quiet Place, Heretic masterfully intertwines slow-burn horror with the moral complexities surrounding organized religion. Here, the true terror stems not only from violence but also from the unsettling questions raised about belief systems and their manipulation.

Fans are already calling it “a modern pearl of horror,” asserting that the film deserves multiple viewings. “A philosophical-theological masterpiece wrapped in a violent thriller,” another viewer asserted, prompting reflections on the darker aspects of religious narratives. “Love anything with Hugh Grant… This movie challenges us on so many levels.”

Heretic is more than just a horror movie; it’s a cultural commentary that’s here to spark conversations. This film urges audiences to reflect on the complex relationship between faith and power, making it a must-see for anyone looking to delve deeper into the nuances of religious horror.