Remember the charming guy from Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), Nine Months (1995), Bridget Jones’ Diary, Love Actually and Notting Hill? Just seeing him on screen makes you believe in the love, kindness, humor, and tender, sensitive qualities of a romantic lead. We are all eagerly waiting for his next romantic film as he is so perfect in these roles. But what happened to him? Suddenly, he was playing the bad guy in A Very English Scandal, The Undoing, and even trying to hurt Paddington! Who does this? This is almost unimaginable. But no matter which way Hugh Grant goes, I don’t mind–because his performance as the villain in “Heresy” is wonderful. Honestly, I could watch him play these roles endlessly.
Co-written and directed by Scott Baker and Brian Woods, “Heresy” was an excellent horror film for me, although I wasn’t a fan of the explicit violence, which became more prevalent in the second half. The film tells the story of two Mormon missionaries (played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East) who mistakenly knock on the wrong door. The man who answers the phone, Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), could have sent them away, but instead he graciously invites them in. Can explain the purpose of their beliefs and prove it with undeniable evidence. But if one has never seen God, how can one prove His existence? Mr. Reed is ruthless and the missionaries must find a way to escape. But can they?
“Heresy” is filled with sharp, intelligent dialogue that will keep you on the edge of your seat. These conversations were so gripping and left me in awe. From the outset, it’s clear that Mr. Reed is a sinister figure playing a cruel game. Missionaries soon realized this. They’re smart, but they don’t know that beating Mr. Reed in his own game of cat and mouse won’t be easy. His twisted mind sets traps that seem impossible to escape. Just when you think they’ve finally found a way out, another door slams shut, reminding everyone that once inside, there’s no escape.
Without giving too much away, “Heresy” is an incredibly smart, engaging, thrilling film that’s both funny and terrifying. By the end, it became so intense that I found myself closing my eyes in fear. Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East give chilling performances. Their depictions will give you goosebumps. The brilliant writing and directing of this film takes it to another level, making it a wild and unsettling ride. It’s also proof that Hugh Grant, who for so long hid his potential behind romantic roles, has become a truly versatile actor. His portrayal of the villain is so captivating that it makes you savor every moment. He showed us the full range of his talents and cemented his status as one of the greatest living actors – a name that will be remembered for generations.
