The chilling horror thriller Heretic, starring Hugh Grant, is making its way to digital streaming, with a tentative release set for December 10 via premium video on demand (PVOD). Directed and written by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the film has captivated audiences with its intense, cerebral thrills since its theatrical debut on November 8.
A Twisted Tale of Faith and Fear
Heretic follows the harrowing journey of two young Mormon missionaries—Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East)—who find themselves trapped in a deadly game after knocking on the wrong door. They are met by the enigmatic and sinister Mr. Reed, played by Hugh Grant in a career-defining role that subverts his charming on-screen persona. Topher Grace also stars as Elder Kennedy, adding depth to the film’s gripping narrative.
The official synopsis teases a haunting psychological struggle: “Two young missionaries are forced to prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a diabolical Mr. Reed, becoming ensnared in his deadly game of cat-and-mouse.”
Digital Release and Pricing Details
According to When to Stream, Heretic will be available on major digital platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, and VUDU starting December 10. While A24 has yet to confirm this date officially, fans can already pre-order the film for $24.99. PVOD rentals are expected to be priced at $19.99 for a 48-hour viewing window.
Box Office Success and Critical Acclaim
Despite its modest production budget of under $10 million, Heretic has proven to be a box office success, grossing $26.8 million in North America and an additional $9 million internationally, for a global total of $35.8 million.
Critically, the film has been well-received, earning a 91% “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 248 reviews. The audience score stands at a respectable 77%, with viewers praising its cerebral approach to horror.
What Critics Are Saying
Many critics have lauded Hugh Grant’s chilling performance, with ABC News’ Peter Travers describing it as “Hugh Grant using his charm for evil in this provocative game about the meaning, if any, of religion in a godless modern world.” Travers commended Grant’s transformation from romcom star to a diabolical villain, calling it “devilishly entertaining.”
Similarly, The Washington Post’s Jen Yamato praised the film’s ability to instill doubt and suspense, writing, “Heretic shrewdly introduces doubt about what should be believed. Are the sisters face to face with a convert, a hobbyist, or the devil himself?”
However, not all reviews were glowing. Rex Reed of the Observer criticized the film, labeling it as “a laughably overwrought, pseudo-horror mess,” and dismissed Grant’s performance as unable to save the film from what he saw as pretension.
A Unique Take on Religious Horror
Heretic offers a fresh take on religious horror, eschewing cheap scares in favor of psychological depth. The RT Critics Consensus reads, “Hugh Grant has infectious fun playing against type in Heretic, a religious horror that preaches the gospel of cerebral chills over cheap shocks.”
Final Thoughts
With its digital release fast approaching, Heretic promises to continue its reign as a thought-provoking and spine-tingling experience for horror fans. Whether it’s Hugh Grant’s transformation into a malevolent force or the film’s exploration of faith and fear, Heretic is set to leave a lasting impression on audiences seeking more than just traditional horror thrills.
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