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Hugh Grant Ventures into Horror with ‘Heretic’
Renowned actor Hugh Grant, celebrated for his memorable performances in romantic comedies like Love Actually and Notting Hill, has recently transitioned into the horror genre with impressive initial feedback. His latest psychological thriller, Heretic, debuted at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and marks a notable shift in Grant’s career, steering away from his familiar romantic lead roles towards darker, more antagonistic characters.
In Heretic, Grant portrays Mr. Reed, who ensnares two female missionaries seeking to convert him to Mormonism. This chilling narrative, crafted with production by A24 and the creative minds of Scott Beck and Bryan Woods—known for their work on A Quiet Place—is characterized as an intense and thought-provoking examination of faith and belief. Early trailers have garnered attention, and audiences can anticipate the film’s U.S. release on November 15th.
Reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with The Independent showcasing the excitement surrounding Grant’s performance. One viewer described the film as “a wild rollercoaster ride,” highlighting Grant’s portrayal as “chilling” and “menacing.” Another remarked, “I can’t imagine anyone other than Hugh Grant in a role that was seemingly made for him,” a sentiment that hints at the potential for Grant to explore more villainous characters in the future. Critics have praised the film for its clever storytelling, dark humor, and spine-tingling suspense, reflecting Grant’s successful pivot into a more complex role.
More Than Just a Love Interest?
Initially catapulted to fame for his poignant and relatable portrayals of romantic heroes, Grant’s shift in focus comes at age 64. This evolution is not entirely surprising, as his recent filmography has begun to venture into more sinister territory. Before Heretic, he embraced roles with a darker tone in films like Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves and Paddington 2, along with his quirky portrayal of an Oompa-Loompa in Wonka, and a noteworthy cameo in Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.
Looking ahead, Grant is set to return to his romantic roots with the next chapter in the Bridget Jones series, which he claims features “the best script of the four films so far” and moved him to tears upon reading. While many fans are eager to see him explore further eerie roles following the acclaim of Heretic, Grant’s range indicates that his future projects may surprise and delight audiences, blending familiar charm with unexpected depths.
Mark calendars for the theatrical release of Heretic on November 15.
Source
movieweb.com