The Unholy Blend: Exploring Religion and Horror in 'Heretic'

The horror movie 'Heretic' features Hugh Grant as a skeptical antagonist confronting two missionaries, highlighting horror's long-standing connection with religion. With insights from experts, the film critiques religious institutions and explores themes like faith and free will. Such themes have been central to horror, reflecting societal taboos.

The latest horror film 'Heretic' sees Hugh Grant taking on the role of a religious skeptic, locking horns with two frightened missionaries trapped inside his home. The movie progressively transforms from what resembles a theology lecture into a bloody escape game, thrilling the audience by intertwining faith with fear.

The movie comes at a time when horror's fascination with religion, particularly Christianity in the U.S., is being reexamined, as demonstrated by classics like 'The Exorcist' and 'The Omen.' According to film professor Stacey Abbott, horror films offer a canvas for discussing societal critiques and conventional traditions, making them uniquely effective in addressing cultural anxieties.

Religion and horror share thematic ties, tackling concepts like life, death, and what it means to be human. Brandon Grafius, a Biblical studies professor, notes that such themes resonate deeply with U.S. audiences due to Christianity's dualistic nature. Films like 'The Conjuring' and 'The First Omen' respond to modern debates on religion and societal control, expanding on these rich narratives.

(With inputs from agencies.)