Scott Beck

I’m not a great fan of the horror genre but I’m a steadfast admirer of actor Hugh Grant’s decision to demonstrate his versatility by playing villains (Paddington 2, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves), rather than charmingly stumbling, bumbling romantic leads (Love Actually, Notting Hill, etc.). Heretic begins as two young missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – ardent, innocent Sister Paxton (Chloe East) and steadfast, stoic Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) – trudge through a Colorado ski town, trying – without success – to strike up conversations with passers-by about their faith.

Hugh Grant is a one man creep show in the guise of a religious zealot in Scott Beck and Bryan Woods’ horror thriller, Heretic. Grant goes to the dark side in Heretic as a man who doubts the validity of religion and the church itself. He’s part theology teacher, part psychopath, and chews up the scenery with every monologue. Heretic is more cerebral than slasher. It’s psychological blasphemy. A sinister Sunday School lesson with only a few requisite jump scares and some blood. The film pulls you in with it’s believable performances, originality, and just enough mystery to keep you interested.