The religious horror film "Heretic", directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, offers riveting scenes of cerebral theologian Mr. Reed, performed masterfully by Hugh Grant, in intellectual battles against two young Mormon missionaries. Grant, usually recognized for his charming characters in rom-coms such as Bridget Jones and Notting Hill, utilizes his charisma in this film to portray a reclusive yet initially amicable theologian who poses a threat to these unsuspecting missionaries.
Mr. Reed's intense focus and unpredictable humor hint towards his eccentricity which leads Sisters Paxton, played by Chloe East, and Barnes, played by Sophie Thatcher, into a precarious situation. As missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they are sent to convert the seemingly intrigued theologian. They are initially comforted by Reed's transparency and kindness, a stark contrast to the usual disdain they attract due to their evangelism.
Reed welcomes the sisters and even offers them blueberry pie. But the observant sisters can't overlook his unusual attentiveness towards their faith and intrusive queries. Ignoring their apprehensions, they get trapped in his eerie world where his motives become clear.
Beck and Woods successfully set the stage for this spine-chilling narrative by painting an unsettling aura of Mr. Reed's home which casts doubt on their host's sincerity. As their stay prolongs, Reed's enthusiasm borders on forceful, hinting at their rapidly deteriorating situation. The climax unfolds when the sisters find themselves captive to a man driven by religious obsession.
Blurring lines between intellect and fanatism, Grant delivers eloquent dialogues which are punctuated by bizarre references in one of the film's unforgettable scenes. Despite its engaging initial half and commendable performances, the film loses its edge by not fully committing to its critique on modern religion. Although the screenplay has shortcomings, the captivating interaction between Paxton, Barnes and Mr. Reed prevails. "Heretic" successfully keeps viewers engrossed and intrigued throughout the runtime.
