LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Golden Globe winner Hugh Grant is in discussions to take on a new thrilling role in the upcoming horror film 'Heretic', to be directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods for A24. Grant's involvement comes on the heels of the success of his recent Paramount/eOne fantasy movie 'Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves', which received critical acclaim and grossed over $200M worldwide.
Plot details for 'Heretic' have been kept tightly under wraps, but rumor has it that the story will revolve around two young women of faith who find themselves ensnared in a dangerous game within the residence of an eccentric man. No information has been disclosed regarding the film's producers at this time. A24, known for its prowess in the horror-thriller genre, has had great success with films like Ari Aster's 'Hereditary' and 'Midsommar', as well as Ti West and Mia Goth's 'X' films, including the upcoming third installment, 'Maxxine'. The studio recently acquired the highly sought-after supernatural horror movie 'Talk to Me' after its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Production plans and potential strike impact
While 'Heretic' is slated to commence production in July, potential delays could arise due to the looming SAG-AFTRA strike. Earlier this week, members of the union overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike if a new contract was not reached by the June 30 deadline. Therefore, it remains to be seen how the strike situation may impact the film's shooting schedule.
Grant, who played the rogue villain Forge in the 'Dungeons & Dragons' adaptation, has been showcasing his versatility in recent years with notable projects including the hit psychological thriller series 'The Undoing', which became HBO's most-watched show in 2020, and the Amazon Prime Video limited series 'A Very English Scandal', where he portrayed Jeremy Thorpe, a UK Parliament member who stood trial and was acquitted on charges related to his ex-boyfriend.
The accomplished actor, who has garnered numerous nominations and accolades for his recent work, will next be seen guest-starring opposite Kate Winslet in the limited series 'The Regime'. Grant also has other exciting projects on the horizon, including his appearance in Jerry Seinfeld's directorial debut 'Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story' and Warner Bros' Willy Wonka origin story 'Wonka', headlined by Timothee Chalamet, in which Grant takes on the unexpected role of an Oompa Loompa.
Beck and Woods' rise in the horror genre
Beck and Woods, the filmmakers behind 'Heretic', rose to prominence with their screenplay for 'A Quiet Place', which was subsequently directed by John Krasinski and grossed over $340M worldwide. They served as executive producers for the film, which has since become a successful franchise, and also wrote, directed and produced the sci-fi action thriller '65' for Sony. Their most recent involvement includes executive producing and contributing to the screenplay of the Stephen King adaptation 'The Boogeyman', currently playing in theaters, according to Deadline.
