Hugh Grant Stars in Psychological Horror Film ‘Heretic’

A24 has unveiled the gripping trailer for its upcoming psychological horror film, Heretic, directed and written by the talented duo Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. Starring Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East, the film promises a chilling exploration of faith and fear, set against the backdrop of a sinister game orchestrated by Grant’s character, Mr. Reed.

In Heretic, two young Mormon missionaries, portrayed by Thatcher and East, encounter a nightmare when they knock on the wrong door during their mission. They are greeted by Mr. Reed, played by Hugh Grant, who lures them into a terrifying game of psychological torment. The trailer showcases Reed’s menacing challenge: “I won’t keep you if you wish to leave, but I want you to choose which door to go through based on your faith,” he declares, pointing to two doorways labelled “BELIEF” and “DISBELIEF.” The scene escalates into a life-sized labyrinth, where one missionary becomes ensnared in a maze of wooden corridors, highlighting the film’s tension and claustrophobic atmosphere.

Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for their work on John Krasinski’s A Quiet Place, have once again crafted a narrative that delves into human vulnerability and primal fear. Their previous collaborations include the 2019 crime horror film Haunt and the recent sci-fi thriller 65, starring Adam Driver. They also co-wrote the screenplay for The Boogeyman, an adaptation of Stephen King’s work featuring Sophie Thatcher.

The production boasts a talented cast, including Elle McKinnon, River Codack, Carolyn Adair, Stephanie Lavigne, and Elle Young. Producers for the film include Katie Aquino, Scott Beck, Liliane Bedford, Julia Glausi, Kai Raka, Stacey Sher, and Jeanette Volturno.

Hugh Grant, widely recognised for his charming roles in romantic comedies, has increasingly embraced darker, villainous characters in recent years. His roles in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves and Paddington 2 have showcased his versatility. However, Heretic marks his return to the horror genre, a territory he hasn’t explored since starring in Ken Russell’s cult classic The Lair of the White Worm way back in 1988.

Sophie Thatcher, who has garnered acclaim for her performance in Showtime’s Yellowjackets, and Chloe East, noted for her role in Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans, bring a compelling dynamic to the film. Their portrayal of the young missionaries is core to the themes of faith, fear, and survival.

You can watch the trailer for Heretic below, it gives a tantalising glimpse into the film’s intense psychological landscape.

Heretic is poised to be a standout in A24’s impressive roster of upcoming horror films, delivering a sophisticated blend of suspense and psychological terror.

Heretic trailer