Chilling Thriller ‘Heretic’ Starring Hugh Grant Now Streaming on VOD

Attention horror enthusiasts! The highly praised horror film Heretic has made its way from cinemas to digital video-on-demand (VOD). Directed by Bryan Woods and Scott Beck, this A24 film showcases a memorable performance from Hugh Grant as the menacing Mr. Reed. Following its success with both critics and audiences, Heretic is now available on platforms such as Amazon, Apple TV, YouTube, and Fandango at Home, allowing it to reach a broader audience.

An Outstanding Success

Since its debut in theaters on November 8, Heretic has been a significant box-office success, amassing $27.5 million in the U.S. and $13.2 million internationally, totaling $40.7 million worldwide from a modest budget of $10 million. This financial achievement has more than quadrupled its initial investment, highlighting its broad appeal. According to The Numbers, it stands out as one of the year’s most lucrative horror films, a feat not often seen in a genre that faces challenges in critical recognition.

The film exceeded expectations by earning an impressive 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 251 reviews. Critics have praised its engaging plot, suspenseful atmosphere, and Hugh Grant’s striking portrayal. MovieWeb’s Murjani Rawls described Grant’s character as “tailor-made,” noting his skillful blend of dark humor and sinister elements.

Hugh Grant’s Transformation as Mr. Reed

Hugh Grant, known for his roles in romantic comedies like Notting Hill and Love Actually, displays his range in Heretic with his depiction of the cunning Mr. Reed, a character marked by deep flaws and dark ambitions.

In a conversation with GamesRadar+, Grant described the detailed approach he took to prepare for the role:

“I go through the script with an extraordinary tooth comb… The answer to each question suggests something about him and his past… I think it’s very important that the audience can kind of smell the damage inside him.”

His commitment to creating a nuanced villain transformed Mr. Reed from a typical antagonist into a tragically complex character, making his speeches and rants memorable.

Where to Watch and Pricing

Fans can now find A24’s Heretic available for streaming or purchase on major VOD platforms. The film can be rented for $19.99 or bought for $24.99, which is a worthy choice for avid horror fans. Given its accolades and box-office performance, this film is essential viewing for anyone interested in engaging and stimulating horror.

My Thoughts: Heretic excels in combining psychological horror with sharp social commentary. Hugh Grant’s transformation into the mysterious Mr. Reed is a highlight, and the direction by Bryan Woods and Scott Beck skillfully mixes tension with dark humor. Its ability to elicit both dread and contemplation solidifies its status as a contemporary horror classic. Although some may find the VOD pricing a bit high, the immersive cinematic experience it delivers is undoubtedly worthwhile.

What do you think is Hugh Grant’s best performance? Will his role in Heretic change how we view his acting career?