Everything You Need to Know About A24’s Heretic (2024)

The new horror-thriller film from A24, Heretic, delves into profound themes including faith, doubt, and morality. Crafted by writers and directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, this gripping tale is set to hit U.S. theaters on November 8, 2024.

Featuring a stellar cast including Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East, the narrative follows two young missionaries who attempt to convert Mr. Reed, portrayed by the seasoned Hugh Grant.

Heretic made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2024, and was later showcased on October 24, 2024, at the 38th annual AFI Fest held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California.

An Overview of Heretic’s Storyline

The Cambridge Dictionary’s online version defines ‘heretic’ as ‘an individual who holds beliefs that contradict the foundational tenets of a specific religion’. This film tackles the theme of religious discord through engaging dialogue while uncovering the lurking terrors behind seemingly benign situations.

The film’s official description states:

“Two young missionaries must prove their faith after encountering a malevolent Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant) at the wrong doorstep, becoming trapped in his treacherous game of cat and mouse.”

Sister Barnes (Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (East) are earnest missionaries endeavoring to share their beliefs from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly referred to as the Mormon Church.

Mr. Reed, a Scottish gentleman, had previously shown interest in learning about this church, prompting the two missionaries to visit him.

When a storm forces the women to take cover in Reed’s home, they find themselves engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue with the elderly man, covering topics such as faith, humanity, and ethics. This conversation leaves them questioning their own beliefs and providing profound insights.

At the AFI Fest, Scott Beck shared his thoughts on the film’s themes and how it redefines horror, stating:

“A few years back, after we (Beck and Woods) created A Quiet Place, which built tension through cinematic techniques, we wondered if we could flip that approach—where horror emerges not from monsters or jump scares but through ideas and conversation. That’s how Heretic began to take shape.”

Heretic: The Talent Behind the Film

The film’s producers include Beck, Woods, Stacey Sher, Julia Glausi, and Jeanette Volturno, with Justin Li responsible for editing. Cinematography was led by Chung Chung-hoon, while Chris Bacon crafted the score.

The film features a talented ensemble cast:

Hugh Grant as Mr. Reed
Sophie Thatcher as Sister Barnes
Chloe East as Sister Paxton
Topher Grace as Elder Kennedy
Elle Young as Prophet

In an interview with BuzzFeed on October 29, 2024, Hugh Grant remarked that preparing for Heretic required considerable research from him and the creative team. He explored the minds of serial killers and cult leaders to inform his character:

“I investigated the backgrounds of killers and cult leaders while also studying the religious concepts, although Scott (Beck) and Bryan (Woods) really took the lead in that fascinating research.”

Grant further expressed that the film’s premise is “truly original and intriguing,” revealing his admiration for Beck and Woods’ insights on Christianity.

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