TIFF ’24 Review: ‘Heretic’ is a new flavour of extremism

Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East) are travelling to people’s homes who’ve shown an interest in learning more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As Mormons, they follow a distinct set of rules when it comes to these house visits, but Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant) assures them all is well. He has some very stimulating thoughts and questions about their religion, and Paxton thinks she may finally convert someone. However, as the conversation derails, the young women find they cannot leave and have been tricked into participating in a series of experiments so Reed can test their faith.

Reed believes he’s found the one true religion and resolves to convince the Mormon missionaries that they’ve dedicated their lives to the wrong one. What begins as moderate prodding of their convictions — including a provocative metaphor involving Monopoly — slowly evolves into terrifying tests of their faith. The writer-director team of Scott Beck and Bryan Woods thrive on creating stories that unfold in unique circumstances.

The film’s opening acts are intensely thought-provoking as Reed initiates an intimidating debate to which the girls can only provide wrong answers and only he can win. Grant’s performance is incredibly unsettling as his calm demeanour masks a sadistic need to be right at all costs. Regrettably, the last act loses the thread to some degree. It introduces some ideas with great potential that are not fully explored, while also rejecting Reed’s doctrine by significantly shifting his character’s arc. It’s unfortunate the narrative loses its stirring momentum at the end, but the rest of the picture and Grant’s latest turn as villain is still worth the watch.

Heretic had its world premiere in the Special Presentations programme at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Read other reviews from the festival.

Directors: Scott Beck and Bryan Woods
Starring: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East