Synopsis:
Two young missionaries become ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse when they knock on the door of the diabolical Mr. Reed. Trapped in his home, they must turn to their faith if they want to make it out alive.
My thoughts:
Not to be a nitpicker, but the title of the movie, "Heretic" is a bit of a misnomer, because the lead villain (or is he?) is more of a nihilist than a heretic. Technically speaking, heresy is a perceived deviation from the dogma, not dismissal of dogma. I realize that the term "heretic" is catchier and more marketable, instantly pigeonholing the film in specific genre. Most religious horror is flat and predictable, with a strong anti-religious message - or an "Exorcist" derivative. This particular film is admirably stimulating and challenging. Kudos to the screenwriters who managed to digest a lot of comparative theology to make it more palatable. If you have a lot of background knowledge in religion - you will find yourself nodding through some of the dialogue. If your knowledge of religion is very basic, and all customs blend into one, you will learn something new.
A few words about the villain (or is he?) Hugh Grant aged out of his "dreamy bad boy" image. Now he plays a creepy old man. I was surprised that the sexual component was underplayed, despite the dynamic of a sinister older man holding two young girls hostages in his labyrinth of a house. There was no element of seduction/coercion. Thank you for leaving that predictable trope out of the equation.
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