Heretic, the 2024 American horror thriller, delves into themes of faith and manipulation. Written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the movie stars Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East.
Heretic premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2024. It was released in the UK and Ireland on November 1, 2024, with A24 releasing it in the U.S. on November 8, 2024.
The story centers around missionaries Barnes and Paxton, portrayed by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, respectively. The two young women face a harrowing experience at Mr. Reed’s secluded home, where their beliefs are challenged in ways they could never imagine.
The plot forces the missionaries to face life, death and their faith by examining Reed's warped ideas. Hugh Grant as Reed leads the ensemble in a passionate performance that gives the film's terrifying ambiance complexity.
Full list of main and supporting cast of Heretic (2024)
Hugh Grant as Mr. Reed
Hugh Grant takes on the role of the eerie and reclusive Mr. Reed, a character whose dark intentions drive the narrative. Known for his charismatic roles in films like Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral, Grant explores a more sinister side in Heretic.
His portrayal of Reed as a manipulative figure who distorts religious beliefs adds depth to the psychological tension in the movie. Grant’s shift to horror showcases his versatility, bringing a chilling intensity to Reed’s character.
Sophie Thatcher as Sister Barnes
Sophie Thatcher, known for her role in Yellowjackets, plays Sister Barnes, one of the missionaries who encounters Reed’s dark beliefs.
Thatcher brings a strong and resilient presence to Barnes, who must navigate Reed’s terrifying mind games. Her role as Barnes highlights her ability to portray both vulnerability and strength, making her a standout in this horror thriller.
Chloe East as Sister Paxton
Chloe East stars as Sister Paxton, Barnes’ companion on the mission. Previously seen in Generation and The Wolf of Snow Hollow, East brings a youthful energy to her role, providing an emotional counterbalance to Thatcher’s Barnes.
Paxton’s journey throughout the film adds layers to the story, as she becomes ensnared in Reed’s disturbing web. East’s performance captures the intense psychological struggle Paxton faces.
Topher Grace as Elder Kennedy
Topher Grace, who gained fame in That '70s Show, plays Elder Kennedy. He's a senior figure in the missionaries’ community, appearing briefly as a symbol of their faith.
His presence, though limited, adds another layer to the narrative, emphasizing the isolation and helplessness of the young missionaries. Grace’s seasoned acting experience enriches the film’s cast with gravitas.
Elle Young as The Prophet
Elle Young portrays The Prophet, a key figure in Reed’s twisted belief system. Her eerie appearance and haunting monologues intensify the film’s horror. Young’s performance is memorable, adding to the mystique surrounding Reed’s house and his ominous rituals.
Supporting cast
The supporting cast includes Julie Lynn Mortensen as a pedestrian, Haylie Hansen, Elle McKinnon and Hanna Huffman as teenagers, Anesha Bailey and Miguel Castillo as neighbors, Stephanie Lavigne as a believer and Wendy Gorling as a disciple.
Production team
Heretic is directed and written by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for crafting suspenseful thrillers.
Beck and Woods not only penned the script but also produced the film with Julia Glausi, Stacey Sher and Jeanette Volturno. Chris Bacon’s music score further enriches the experience, weaving dread and suspense into every scene.
Each actor in Heretic delivers a performance that contributes to the film's haunting examination of faith and manipulation, bringing together a talented ensemble.
Hugh Grant's portrayal of Mr. Reed is noteworthy, as it captures the essence of horror with sophistication. Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East contribute youthful resilience and vulnerability to their roles.
The core cast is rounded out by Elle Young and Topher Grace, who contribute a sense of mystery and gravity to the narrative. Apart from a dedicated supporting cast and an expert production team, this ensemble renders Heretic an engaging viewing experience for fans of psychological horror.
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