Hugh Grant‘s best horror performance on Prime Video can now be seen in the psychological thriller Heretic, recently added to the UK and Ireland streaming catalogue. Since its release on 31 May, the film has quickly climbed the platform’s most-watched chart, captivating viewers with Grant’s unsettling portrayal.
Heretic Brings New Terror with Hugh Grant at the Center
Heretic features Hugh Grant as Mr Reed, an enigmatic religious authority who welcomes two young Mormon missionaries into his home. Sophie Tatcher, known for Yellowjackets, plays Sister Barnes, while Chloe East from The Fabelmans portrays Sister Paxton. The missionaries’ routine visit takes a dark turn as their interactions with Mr Reed spiral into complex moral debates, unsettling theological puzzles, and moments of intense fear.
Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the filmmakers behind A Quiet Place, wrote and directed the film, crafting a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere that pushes its characters to emotional extremes. The setting, largely confined to the home of Mr Reed, amplifies the suspense and allows for a tightly woven narrative.
A24 Scores Big with Critical and Commercial Success
Distributed by A24, Heretic has become one of the production company‘s highest-grossing releases. Critics and audiences have acclaimed the movie, particularly highlighting Hugh Grant’s dark and menacing role—a significant departure from the romantic comedies that marked much of his earlier career. The film‘s unique setting and intense storytelling have also earned it a spot among A24’s notable successes.
Heretic has been recognized with a Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, holding a 91% score from 281 reviews. Nearly all reviewers noted Grant’s remarkable performance, which brings an unexpected depth and sinister quality to the film‘s tone.
Critical Praise and Audience Impact
Reviews, such as the four-star write-up by Empire, describe Heretic as a distinctly intellectual and extremely tense thriller. For audiences more familiar with Hugh Grant in lighter roles, the movie offers a stark and memorable contrast, as Empire notes:
“You’ll never watch Notting Hill the same way again,”
– Empire
This new direction for Grant has not only pleased critics but has also expanded his appeal to horror and thriller fans. The actor has previously mentioned filming an alternate ending for the movie, further piquing interest among viewers and fans alike, though details remain under wraps to avoid spoilers.
Streaming Availability and What to Expect Next
Heretic remains available for streaming on Prime Video across the UK and Ireland. With its compelling performances, especially Hugh Grant’s chilling transformation, and significant presence in both critical and commercial conversations, Heretic is set to influence the landscape of horror cinema and Grant’s own career trajectory in equal measure.
