I'm always on the lookout for good new horror films and have essentially devoured the entire 2024 “Best of” list. However, there appears to be a late entry for films that could finish the year at the top, or at least near the top 3.

That would be “Heretic,” which hits theaters in a few days, on November 8th. There are now dozens of reviews, 83 to be exact, and the score has gone from the high 80s to low 90s all the way up to a Certified Fresh 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. The main role in the film is played by Hugh Grant, of all people, who is supposed to play an amazing role as the villain in the film. Here is the official synopsis:

“Two young missionaries must prove their faith when they knock on the wrong door and are greeted by a devilish Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), who is drawn into his deadly game of cat and mouse.”

This result puts Heretic in a tie for the third best horror film of 2024, although depending on your personal tastes you might bump it up to number 1 after you see it. Here is the list:

1) Late Night with the Devil

2) Curiosity

3) Infested

3) On fire

3) Strange darling

3) heretics

Yes, that's a four-way tie for third place, although honestly I think Oddity is a bit overrated and would rate it lower than the others. Also, I liked “Infested” more than “Late Night with the Devil” and “Strange Darling” is currently my favorite horror film of the year, but I assume you could I classify this more as a thriller. In any case, Heretic is only a point or two away from number 1 in such reviews and could reach that place if more reviews come in. Here's a selection of what critics love about it, again primarily focusing on Hugh Grant:

• The Viewer – “It’s fun to watch Grant having so much fun. All those years as a rom-com star, when, as it turns out, he's best at being thoroughly bad.”
• HeyUGuys – “Heretic features mesmerizing performances, eerie images and carefully crafted dialogue. By casting Grant in this daring role, Beck and Woods bring a fresh voice to modern horror and solidify Heretic as an unforgettable addition to the genre.”
• Little White Lies – “Heretic may try to shake your faith in the divine, but it really strengthens your faith in Hugh Grant.”

While Hugh Grant is the main attraction, all Her performances have been praised, including Sophie Thatcher, whose breakout role was in the ongoing Yellowjackets. Her missionary counterpart is Chloe East, who I had never heard of before, but she is also said to be excellent. I can't wait to see this for myself in a few days.

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