Latest news with #Heretic
Daily Record
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Hugh Grant 'unrecognisable' in sinister horror role as he ditches rom-com past
Hugh Grant stars in the American psychological horror film, Heretic, which was written and directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the filmmakers behind A Quiet Place An electrifying new entry in the horror scene, the 2024 film has garnered critical acclaim, notably for Hugh Grant's 'brilliant' portrayal in the latest psychological terror, Heretic. Penned and helmed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the shrewd minds behind A Quiet Place, the American chiller touches upon religious themes with a focus on Mormonism, questioning the fundamentals of belief and the potential for religion to be wielded as a means of manipulation. In Heretic, Hugh Grant, at 64, embodies Mr Reed, an unconventional character fascinated by the Mormon church. Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East feature as Mormon missionaries who call upon him, yet as events unfold, Mr Reed's motivations appear increasingly sinister against the backdrop of his mysterious dwelling. A review from Rotten Tomatoes says: "Really liked this film, thought-provoking in the ways in which it gets you to look at religion. Great to see Hugh Grant in something other than a floppy-haired love interest... The ending makes you question, 'How did it really finish! ?' So in my mind, a good movie." Grant's stirring rendition in Heretic has led to nominations for best actor at the Golden Globes, the Critics' Choice Awards, and the BAFTAs. But industry nods aside, audiences too have been taken aback by how distinct this role is for him, a stark shift from his renowned romantic comedy roots, reports the Mirror US. The actor gained notoriety for his portrayal of the archetypal British gentleman in a slew of 1990s romantic comedies, many penned by Richard Curtis. His roles in Love Actually, Bridget Jones, Notting Hill, and Four Weddings and a Funeral typically cast Grant as a lovable man smitten with love, making his appearance in Heretic a stark departure that left fans taken aback. One critic said: "Great acting. Hugh Grant was fantastic. I love when they play roles totally out of character. Must see." Another opinion expressed admiration for Grant's performance as the enigmatic older gentleman, stating: "Excellent concept, expertly portrayed by Hugh Grant. Chilling and captivating with a real sinister chemistry. The only thing that lets it down is a bit of a lackluster ending, but otherwise it's great." The film presents an unsettling scenario where two young Mormons, after a probing conversation about their faith at Mr. Reed's residence, are given a choice between two doors based on their belief in God. However, both doors ominously lead to the same grim destination. A viewer said: "Hooked me from the start", adding, "This film questions religion and your sanity. Fantastic performance from everybody. You can't help but love Hugh Grant in this." For those seeking a new horror flick or a film that promises to unsettle, Heretic is currently available for viewing on Apple TV.
Metro
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
'Chilling' horror with 91% on Rotten Tomatoes soars up Amazon Prime chart
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video A thrilling 2024 horror movie that produced an unexpected career turn for a famous British actor is proving a hit with Amazon Prime Video viewers. Heretic, which starred Hugh Grant as the eccentric and creepy Mr. Reed, was released in November last year to widespread critical acclaim. The film follows the story of two Mormon missionaries who visit Mr. Reed's home after he expresses interest in joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The two missionaries – Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East) – immediately realise they're in a situation that's more than they bargained for. While Heretic only made back $60million (£44m) at the global box office, that was still roughly six times larger than the budget it was made with – $10m (£7m). And critics were fans too, with Heretic currently boasting a Rotten Tomatoes critic rating of 91%, a critic score of 7.3 out of 10, and an audience rating of 76%. The film was recently added to the massive libraries of horrors on Amazon Prime Video, and viewers are already sending it soaring up the trending charts. @Matthieson4426 celebrated the turn from Hugh Grant: 'Heretic. Hugh Grant is absolutely brilliant. Manages to make an unarmed middle aged man in a brown jumper epically scary. A great watch.' Elsewhere, @MandoDameron was excited that 'Heretic is on Amazon Prime at last!' with a series of emojis implying they were running to watch it. @MontyIsBlessed also couldn't get enough: 'Theologically thrilling and brilliant — I never imagined a movie and theology could bang this hard.' @PaulDuncan67 said: 'Hugh Grant gets better every time I watch him. Heretic is totally absorbing… It takes real talent to demand your attention with minimal players.' @Luluhit said: 'I had no idea this film was so impressive, packed with exquisite dialogue. It's like I've been in a classroom… They come back and tell you the truth right in your face.' On Reddit, SomeGreatGoodThing joked: 'I honestly can't imagine something more horrifying than being trapped in a room with a man telling me his opinions on religion, so this movie really worked for me.' As well as starring Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East, Heretic also features That 70s Show actor Topher Grace as Elder Kennedy, who makes a brief appearance in the film. More Trending For Metro, film critic Tori Brazier described Heretic as a 'horror reinvention' and said Hugh's career is now 'less and less defined by his bumbling rom-com persona from the 90s'. She also described it as an 'intriguing prospect with its approach to debate and engaging Mr Reed in a confined cat-and-mouse chase with two Mormon missionaries'. Heretic was co-written and co-directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the horror film super team who were also behind the 2018 apocalypse movie A Quiet Place. Watch Heretic on Amazon Prime Video now. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Nitzer Ebb frontman Douglas McCarthy dies age 58 after serious health diagnosis MORE: 'Underrated' 90s thriller compared to Criminal Minds is finally coming to Netflix MORE: 'Raw' thriller with unbelievable twist shoots to the top of Netflix chart
Tatler Asia
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
6 production studios making a killing in the horror genre
2. A24 Since its establishment, A24 has cultivated a niche within the horror genre that blends artistic ambition with commercial viability. The studio's approach focuses on psychological and atmospheric horror, appealing to discerning viewers seeking depth and innovation. Films such as Hereditary (2018), Midsommar (2019) and Heretic (2024) have earned both critical praise and solid box office numbers, with Hereditary grossing over US$80 million globally on a US$10 million budget. And then there's the Pearl universe, which has earned a cult following of hardcore horror fans. A24's ability to back auteur-driven projects has helped elevate the horror genre's artistic profile without sacrificing financial returns. 3. Atomic Monster Founded by director James Wan, Atomic Monster has played a crucial role in mainstream horror's evolution. Wan's own The Conjuring universe is one of the most successful horror franchises of the last decade, with multiple entries surpassing US$300 million globally. Atomic Monster combines blockbuster sensibilities with genre storytelling, extending horror's appeal to mass audiences. Wan's productions often feature high production values, tight narratives and supernatural elements that have become staples of modern horror. 4. Ghost House Pictures Co-founded by Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert, Ghost House Pictures has built a reputation for making horror that's accessible, entertaining and internationally appealing. The company strikes a balance between classic scares and modern pacing, producing hits like Drag Me to Hell (2009), Don't Breathe (2016) and Evil Dead Rise (2023). These films tend to blend practical effects with clever tension-building, offering audiences a familiar but well-executed experience. Ghost House may not chase awards-season buzz, but its track record at the box office speaks to a solid understanding of what horror fans want—and are willing to pay to see. 5. Monkeypaw Productions Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions has redefined the horror genre's cultural and financial potential. Starting with Get Out , which grossed over US$255 million worldwide on a US$4.5 million budget, Monkeypaw has merged horror with social commentary in a way that resonates deeply with audiences. Subsequent releases like Us (2019) and Nope (2022) have continued this trend, combining scares with themes of identity and society. Monkeypaw's approach broadens the genre's appeal beyond traditional horror fans, contributing to its commercial success. 6. Proximity Media Founded by Ryan Coogler alongside Zinzi Coogler and Sev Ohanian, Proximity Media has made a significant impact on the horror genre with its 2025 release, Sinners . Directed by Coogler and starring Michael B Jordan, the film blends supernatural horror with social commentary, set against the backdrop of 1930s Mississippi. Sinners has achieved remarkable box office success, grossing over US$351 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of the year so far. The film's unique narrative and strong performances have solidified Proximity Media's position as a formidable player in the horror genre. The financial success of these production houses demonstrates that the horror genre is far from a niche market. By embracing innovation, efficient budgeting and strong storytelling, these companies have established themselves as leaders in one of cinema's most consistently profitable areas. Their varied approaches prove there is no single formula for success in the horror genre, but all share an ability to turn fear into formidable returns. NOW READ 11 female directors who shaped the horror movie genre 11 cancelled TV shows we still can't stop thinking about 6 noona romance K-dramas where love blossoms against the odds
Daily Mirror
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Hugh Grant's 'best film' is now available to watch for free on the BBC
A Hugh Grant classic from the 1990s is now available A beloved Hugh Grant rom-com has just become available on BBC iPlayer, offering viewers the chance to fall in love with the classic all over again for free, reports Surrey Live. Released in 1994, amid the golden era of British romantic comedies, the film was penned by renowned screenwriter Richard Curtis. Hugh Grant, who was a fresh-faced 32 year old teetering on the edge of quitting his acting career, found the script transformative and took on the leading role that would define his future. His performance turned him into a household name in Hollywood and opened the door to an eclectic mix of roles ranging from the American horror flick Heretic to the family favourite Paddington. One particularly impressed cinema-goer shared on Rotten Tomatoes: "This is absolutely the best film of Hugh Grant's career." One viewer reflected: "Simply a charming movie. It gives you a slice of life about love and relationships and makes you realise that it is never too late to go for the person you love amidst all missed opportunities in the past." An additional admirer remarked: "This film still holds up. Grant is at his absolute peak of charm before he reinvented smarm, Scott Thomas is divine, as and MacDowell's performance is surprisingly great on rewatch. And it includes one of the all time great gay moments in film history. No spoilers. "Richard Curtis is a godsend to modern romantic comedy fans because he is one of the few artists still able to get films produced within this genre and to write pretty funny screenplays too," praised another cinema-goer. Four Weddings and a Funeral was an absolute smash when it hit cinemas, starring Hugh Grant as the bashful Charles who falls head over heels for the lively American Carrie, played by Andie MacDowell. The film traced the tumultuous journey to love for Charles and Carrie, set against the backdrop of his friends' own romantic escapades. Boasting a stellar ensemble cast, Four Weddings and a Funeral featured the likes of Kristin Scott Thomas, Simon Callow, James Fleet, Rowan Atkinson, David Haig, and Anna Chancellor. It's rumoured that writer Richard Curtis drew inspiration for the screenplay from his personal encounters at weddings, including a proposition he declined, only to regret it later. The partnership between Grant and Curtis on Four Weddings and a Funeral marked the start of a fruitful collaboration, which continued with hits like Notting Hill in 1999, Bridget Jones's Diary in 2001, and Love Actually in 2003. Their collective efforts helped catapult British romantic comedies onto the world stage, setting a high bar that many subsequent films have struggled to reach. Just last year, Grant had the honour of presenting Curtis with an honorary Oscar at the Governors Awards, a nod to the writer's impressive body of work. Before presenting the award, Grant quipped: "[My agent] sent me this very good script and it had a great part and it was called Four Weddings and a Funeral." I went to the audition and, frankly, I was rather good because the director Mike Newell liked me and wanted me and the producer liked me and wanted me and the money people wanted me. ""The only person who didn't want me and, in fact, took such an instant violent dislike to me, that he did everything in his power to stop me getting the part, was the writer, and it is this a***hole who we are going to honour tonight." His joke had the audience, including Curtis, in fits of laughter. Most recently, Grant reprised his iconic role as Daniel Cleaver for Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, marking a return to romcoms.
The Independent
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
One of last year's scariest horror films has just dropped on this streaming platform
We may still be a few months away from Halloween, but when it comes to a good horror film, there's no need to wait. Last year, everyone was talking about the chilling psychological horror Heretic, with noughties heartthrob Hugh Grant (Love Actually, Bridget Jones's Diary and Notting Hill) turned villain as Mr. Reed. Now, you can stream it from the comfort of your own home (probably watching from behind a pillow). The film follows the story of Mormon missionaries Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton (played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East) who pay a visit to Mr. Reed, after he expresses interest in their church. The young girls find themselves ensnared in a deadly, bone-chilling game of cat and mouse, as they find themselves trapped within the creepy Mr. Reed's home with no way to escape. When the film hit cinemas in 2024, it received positive reviews from critics, and nominations at the Golden Globes, Critics' Choice Awards and the BAFTAs. And, it has an impressive score of 91 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes' Tomatometer. If you can't wait to sink your teeth into this spine-tingling watch, here's everything that you need to know about where to stream Heretic. How to stream Heretic in the UK The film has soared up the Amazon Prime chart, having only been added a few days ago, and is receiving largely positive reviews. Heretic is just shy of two hours long, making it a perfect choice for an upcoming movie night. The film has been available in physical media for a while, released on DVD and Blu-ray in February 2025, but it's now free to watch for Amazon Prime subscribers. Amazon Prime is a paid subscription service that gives users access to numerous benefits, from free expedited shipping on Amazon shopping and free access to hit shows and films on its streaming service. You can sign up for Amazon Prime from just £8.99 a month, but if you're a new user, you can enjoy 30 days of a no-obligation free trial. Sometimes, Amazon will even offer an extra free trial to those who have previously signed up but are no longer members, so it's worth checking out what's on offer for you.
