Anna Daniels
Chloe East, recognized for her performances in The Fabelmans and HBO’s Generation, showcases her skills in the upcoming horror film Heretic. This unique thriller weaves together elements of faith, suspense, and intricate character interactions. Sharing the screen with the versatile Hugh Grant and media star Sophie Thatcher, the film explores profound themes surrounding faith, morality, and personal principles. Following its debut at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Heretic has garnered positive feedback for its distinctive take on religious horror, a fact East enthusiastically highlights regarding the film’s bold narrative approach.
Chloe East’s First Impressions of Heretic
Upon first learning about Heretic, which features two Mormon missionaries encountering a malevolent entity, East initially had some reservations. She feared the film might become a “hate fest” targeting Mormonism. However, as she delved into the screenplay, she discovered that the story transcends such critiques, focusing instead on compelling character dynamics amid troubling circumstances. “Reading the script, I realized it wasn’t solely about Mormonism. It cleverly sets up an intense situation that explores faith’s conflict with fear,” East explained. In Heretic, religion is portrayed not as an object of critique but as a backdrop for exploring deeper issues.
Plot Overview and Character Relationships
Heretic revolves around two young missionaries portrayed by East and Thatcher, who unwittingly step into the home of a seemingly welcoming stranger played by Hugh Grant. However, as the film unfolds, it becomes clear that Grant’s character harbors darker intentions, enriching the psychological intricacies of the plot. This dialogue-rich film distinguishes itself by emphasizing character development and moral complexities rather than relying solely on typical horror elements. East’s Sister Paxton and Thatcher’s character confront their convictions as the tension heightens in the unsettling environment.
Writers and directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods draw from their own encounters with Mormonism to enhance the narrative, infusing genuine depth into the portrayal of their characters. East aimed to authentically embody her role, describing it as integral to her being and expressing her desire to depict Mormon missionaries with dignity.
On-Set Chemistry and Collaborating with Hugh Grant
For East, the success of a horror film reliant on the intimate dynamics among three lead characters necessitates solid chemistry within the cast. While East and Thatcher first crossed paths during auditions, Grant’s introduction came later once shooting commenced in Vancouver. East described her initial impression of Grant as daunting, referring to him as “the most British Brit I’ve ever met.” However, after breaking the ice with a compliment, she quickly realized he shared a passion for creating a quality film, fostering a collaborative environment on set.
Reflecting on her first meeting with Grant, East noted, “I immediately thought this would be enjoyable. There was no sense of hierarchy; he was motivated to help create a phenomenal movie.” This atmosphere of mutual respect was pivotal in delivering the intense scenes, contributing significantly to the film’s realism and suspense.
Debut at TIFF and Audience Response
Heretic had its premiere at the 2024 TIFF, where it received acclaim for Grant’s unexpected portrayal and its innovative approach to horror. East relished witnessing audience reactions, noting the varied responses to distinct scenes. Particularly, one of Grant’s peculiar character traits, such as when he “meows” or introduces a Monopoly game, triggered laughter in certain screenings, adding an unexpected layer of dark comedy to the intense plot. “It’s always amusing when Hugh’s character meows,” she commented, underscoring the film’s ability to interweave moments of humor with genuine tension.
To generate buzz ahead of the film’s release, A24 arranged a unique promotional event at Alamo Drafthouse cinemas, which included an immersive experience featuring a blueberry scent—referencing a memorable plot detail. This innovative marketing strategy provided fans with a memorable way to engage with the film’s eerie atmosphere prior to its broader launch.
Chloe East’s Milestone Year
This year is pivotal for Chloe East, who is also set to appear in Netflix’s drama No Good Deed come December and has just finished filming Big Bold Beautiful Journey, which features stars like Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell. Additionally, she is attached to the upcoming project At the Sea alongside Amy Adams. Reflecting on her career, East remarked that 2024 feels like the culmination of everything she has been striving for, stating, “It seems like this year has been a culmination of all my efforts.”
Initially aspiring to be a ballerina, East’s transition to acting began when she landed her first role on True Blood at 11. She has since diversified her acting portfolio, shifting from HBO’s Generation to Spielberg’s The Fabelmans, showcasing versatility across various genres. Embracing her journey from dance to acting, East views each role as a step forward in her evolution as a well-rounded performer.
Heretic not only allows Chloe East to display her acting prowess but also delves into relevant themes within the religious horror genre, making it a significant addition to her body of work. Her rapport with Grant and Thatcher infuses life into a storyline rich in psychological and philosophical questions, challenging viewers to reflect on the fine line between faith, skepticism, and fear.
As Heretic makes its way to theaters, East’s performance and the film’s intricately woven narrative are poised to ignite discussions among horror enthusiasts and general audiences alike. With a lineup of forthcoming projects and this year’s substantial career milestones, Chloe East’s star is on the rise, keeping audiences eager to see her next steps.
Chloe East’s role in Heretic is both enticing and unsettling, showcasing her talent to balance conviction with vulnerability. The film’s thoughtful exploration of faith avoids heavy-handed criticism of Mormonism, instead emphasizing universal themes of conviction and uncertainty—a refreshing direction for horror. Hugh Grant’s surprising role adds depth and complexity, enhancing the film’s overall narrative.
What are your thoughts on horror films that address religious themes? Do they resonate differently with audiences?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGh5EZ4mWMA
