Heretic directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods discussed their inspiration for Hugh Grant‘s character, Mr. Reed, noting parallels with Nathan Fielder’s The Rehearsal. In a recent interview, Beck and Woods explained that Fielder’s calculated approach to behavior influenced Mr. Reed’s manipulative tactics. This influence shapes Reed’s interactions and defines his psychological strategies.
Heretic directors state Hugh Grant’s Mr. Reed was inspired by Nathan Fielder from The Rehearsal
In an interview with Inverse, directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods said Nathan Fielder’s The Rehearsal inspired Hugh Grant’s character in Heretic. “We joked that he’s kind of like Nathan Fielder with decision trees and trying to predict: If she says this thing and walks over here, here’s what I do,” Woods explained, adding, “When we saw The Rehearsal, we were like, Oh, that’s like Reed.” This inspiration reflects Mr. Reed’s meticulous control tactics, as he strategically manipulates his victims in the film.
Heretic, a decade-long project, follows Mr. Reed as he lures two Mormon missionaries into his trap, challenging their beliefs and exploring the origins of monotheism. Beck and Woods began the script ten years ago but paused to research religion and philosophy.
“We didn’t know enough about religion. So we spent about a decade (while we were doing other films) researching various religions, reading holy books, learning about different atheist and philosophical thinkers, and putting that all into the dialogue,” Woods said.
The choice of Hugh Grant for the role came after the script’s completion. “We were at the point where it can’t be anybody else,” Beck stated. Grant approached the role with dedication, exchanging over 200 emails to clarify concepts like Voltaire and simulation theory. His commitment added depth to Mr. Reed’s character, whose calculated moves echo the tactics of cult leaders aiming to manipulate.
Reflecting on Heretic’s themes, Woods shared, “All religion is kind of like a form of manipulating people’s actions and beliefs.” Reed’s character, with his ambition to test his control over human psychology, embodies this idea.
Heretic premieres on November 8, exploring these complex intersections of belief, manipulation, and philosophy.
