When it comes to religion and theology, there are always layers of context regarding the various theories that are questioned. These layers thrive with an in-depth sense of sinisterism in Heretic. Written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, they present a demonic tone that stays clearly present throughout Heretic. I found the format and setup to be realistic and almost like a puzzle. The terror, however, is what makes the film twisted. Just when you think one thing is happening, connections and dangerous methods are thrown into this mix which leads to a hole that is detrimental to crawl out of.
The film is centered on two young religious girls. They are Sister Barnes (played by Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (played by Chloe East). They are both missionaries who practice Mormon religion. They are doing rounds knocking on doors promoting what their religious beliefs and practices. When they knock on the door of an older gentlemen, Mr. Reed (played by Hugh Grant), he initially delivers a welcoming, friendly attitude. Then, as their conversation continues, his tone as well as his home start to present strange things. He delves into religious topics and suggests that faith has two elements, “belief” and “disbelief.” Given his weird personality, the girls find themselves scared and realize he has trapped them in his home. Soon they are in a deadly game of survival with Mr. Reed. If they cannot prove their theories effectively with him, they may end up never leaving his home.
Grant’s performance in the role of an old, tender yet deceitful man is the fuel to the fire in Heretic. Mr. Reed’s ability to cause the girls to fear for their lives as they navigate his theories creates a complicated landscape. Trying to determine what is known, true, false, or should be rightly questioned in religion and theology are all explored. Heretic delivers a sense of psychological uncharted territory in a dark manner that continues to evolve in an unpleasant way during this cinematic experience.
The focus is solely on Sister Barnes, Sister Paxton, and Mr. Reed—it is like a dueling trivia match where death is likely if wrong. The writing and directing of Beck and Woods keep viewers thinking about religious theories and their accuracy. Do they all eventually agree for the victims to live? The story highlights the lengths to which curiosity can go and leads to a sensational one-of-a-kind death match that is relentless. Heretic leaves the audience repeatedly thinking “WOW” in the back of their minds. The element of surprise is more than what audience expects in Heretic. This film is a genius gem filled with moving parts which portray how someone sinister can find a new maker.
Is there a chance that the girls can escape this evil home? Are the theological and religious theories factual? How well do Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton know their faith? Ultimately, their faith will allow them to find a door to make it out alive. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for Heretic.
