Heretic producer gives insight on the ending!
Following its theatrical release, Heretic has sparked intense debates among fans and critics, particularly about its mysterious ending. The filmmakers, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, have now confirmed that the film’s ambiguity was entirely intentional, aligning with its exploration of faith, belief, and human perception.
Heretic overview
A24’s Heretic is a gripping psychological horror film directed by Beck and Woods, featuring Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East. The story follows two Mormon missionaries who visit a secluded Englishman, Mr. Reed, only to find themselves trapped in a harrowing journey that challenges their faith and delves into the darker aspects of control and manipulation.
The film has been lauded for its suspenseful narrative and deep themes, earning critical praise and $20.4 million at the domestic box office.
Heretic ending explained
The conclusion of Heretic leaves audiences questioning its true meaning. Protagonist Paxton survives Mr. Reed’s orchestrated mind games and murderous intentions, but her escape is far from triumphant. She’s left scarred—both physically and emotionally—while pondering the meaning of faith, kindness, and the human condition. A brief, symbolic moment featuring a butterfly, tied to her earlier dreams, adds a haunting touch to the film’s finale, leaving interpretations wide open.
Many viewers have debated whether the film offers any definitive answers about faith or whether it was designed to remain inconclusive. The filmmakers recently confirmed the latter.
In interviews, directors Beck and Woods emphasized that the open-ended nature of the story reflects the film’s core themes. Beck explained to Business Insider that the ambiguity mirrors humanity’s struggle to define belief and grapple with existential questions:
“These are the biggest questions in life, and there’s no definitive answer. The film’s open-endedness allows everyone to project their own relationship with faith, atheism, or existentialism onto it.”
Woods added that Heretic also critiques the dangers of certainty—being convinced your beliefs are the only truth:
“The idea of certainty—that you’re right and everyone else is wrong—can be incredibly dangerous. The movie challenges that mindset and pushes viewers to think about the consequences of unwavering conviction.”
The directors hope the ending sparks unique interpretations among viewers. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Beck explained:
“We want people to walk away with their own interpretations, and ideally, they’ll be different from person to person.”
Woods likened interpreting the film’s ending to deciding on the “one true religion,” underscoring the filmmakers’ intent to provoke thought and discussion, rather than provide clear answers.
The film’s approach has drawn mixed responses. Many fans appreciated the layers of meaning and the invitation to think deeply about the narrative, while others felt the lack of closure undermined some of the film’s earlier motifs. The disappearing butterfly, symbolizing the fleeting nature of certainty, encapsulates the film’s central idea: the mystery surrounding faith and the unknown.
Ultimately, Heretic doesn’t attempt to resolve the age-old debate about religion, control, or the existence of a higher power. Instead, it invites viewers to reflect on these themes and draw their conclusions, making the movie a thought-provoking and deeply personal cinematic experience.
Heretic is now playing in theaters. If you’re ready for a psychological journey that lingers long after the credits roll, it’s worth checking out.
