This article contains spoilers for the movie Heretic. If you’re wondering whether there’s a post-credits scene, there isn’t.
An Unassuming Beginning
Heretic may initially present itself as a simple narrative revolving around two Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton, portrayed by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, who attempt to convert an elderly man, Mr. Reed played by Hugh Grant. As the story unfolds, the characters find themselves trapped in Mr. Reed’s home as a blizzard begins. Initially welcoming, Reed’s home soon reveals far more sinister intentions, challenging not only physical safety but also spiritual beliefs.
A Dark Transition
Without a clear second act, the film moves swiftly from discussions of faith in a cozy setting to the far more sinister scene of both sisters trapped in a grim basement. Reed lures the missionaries into their trap through an illusion of freedom, where they can supposedly leave at any moment. The walls of this manufactured freedom quickly close in, revealing the illusory choice he presented.
A Twisted Revelation
Once trapped, Sister Barnes begins to confront Reed more directly, especially after they witness a woman proclaiming herself as a prophet after a staged “death.” Barnes is skeptical of this apparent miracle and challenges Reed further, but her defiance leads to her throat being brutally slit. Reed, attempting to rationalize the lack of miraculous resurrection, descends into unhinged conspiracy theories as Sister Barnes dies, knowing the truth about a simple scar on her arm.
A Deeper Descent into Madness
As the story progresses, Sister Paxton discovers Reed’s obsession isn’t faith-driven but an insatiable quest for control. Navigating the basement, she finds multiple imprisoned women, realizing that Reed’s “prophet” was, in fact, two different women used to test the missionaries’ faith. Reed’s coercive regime is laid bare, revealing his delusional belief in having discovered the “one true religion,” which is nothing more than a facade for his need to dominate.
A Fierce Conclusion
The film culminates in a dramatic escape attempt by Sister Paxton. In a surprising twist, Sister Barnes, previously believed to be dead, aids in subduing Reed with her last ounce of strength, securing a violent but necessary victory over him. Although Barnes succumbs to her wounds soon after, Paxton perseveres, leaving the house into the blizzard, transformed yet alive. The film concludes by reinforcing Reed’s obsession with control as the true driving force behind his actions.
No Post-Credits Scene
Heretic concludes without a post-credits scene. However, the credits do include a statement emphasizing that “No Generative AI was used in the making of this film.”