Hugh Grant on His Chilling New Film, "Heretic" (November 2024)

Sun May 25 2025

Hugh Grant talks to Willie Geist about his new film, “Heretic” and about reprising the role of Daniel Cleaver in the upcoming fourth “Bridget Jones” film. They also discuss Grant's relationship with fame and how he’s creating better boundaries and protections in the industry. (Original broadcast date November 17, 2024)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Hugh Grant on His Chilling New Film, "Heretic"

Podcast Information:

Title: Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist
Host: Willie Geist, Sunday TODAY
Episode: Hugh Grant on His Chilling New Film, "Heretic"
Release Date: May 25, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist, host Willie Geist engages in an in-depth conversation with renowned actor Hugh Grant. Known for his iconic roles in romantic comedies such as Four Weddings and a Funeral and Notting Hill, Grant has recently transitioned to more serious and intense roles. His latest film, "Heretic", marks a significant departure from his earlier work, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor.

Overview of "Heretic"

Willie Geist introduces "Heretic" as a psychological thriller that delves into themes of religion and faith. The film features Grant portraying a seemingly charming man who becomes increasingly sinister. The plot centers around two Mormon missionaries who are invited into his home, leading to a series of unsettling events.

Willie Geist [01:06]: "It's a meditation and an examination of religion and faith and all these things."

Hugh Grant’s Approach to His Character

Grant discusses his approach to bringing depth to his character in "Heretic." He emphasizes the importance of creating a believable backstory that transforms his character from a charming professor to a deeply disturbing figure.

Hugh Grant [05:28]: "I sensed that there was fun to be had with him... I thought he was this, the trendy professor... I could have fun being him while being diabolical beneath the surface."

Grant elaborates on the meticulous process of developing his character's history, which includes feelings of social rejection and a desperate need for attention, contributing to his unsettling behavior.

Hugh Grant [06:18]: "I build this huge biography that mushrooms every day... people around him got the creeps, which made him more desperate to make friends."

Collaboration with A24 and Cinematic Experiences

The conversation shifts to Grant's admiration for the film studio A24, known for its original and unconventional films. Grant praises A24 for revitalizing the cinema experience amidst the rise of streaming platforms.

Hugh Grant [08:45]: "A24 came along, a little New York studio, and started saying, let's do original stuff, let's do weird stuff. And they recreated a burgeoning audience for actually going to the cinema."

He expresses his preference for collective cinematic experiences, highlighting the immersive nature of watching films in theaters compared to streaming.

Impact of Streaming on Cinema and Social Culture

Grant shares his concerns about the dominance of streaming services and the decline of traditional cinema-going, as well as the broader societal impacts of increased screen time.

Hugh Grant [10:12]: "I think it's a little sad that so much filmed entertainment has disappeared into streaming and we don't get to enjoy it in theaters the way that we used to."

He laments the loss of communal activities, such as going out to bars and enjoying entertainment together, pointing out a shift towards isolation and individual screen consumption.

Performance and Critical Reception of "Heretic"

Discussing the critical acclaim "Heretic" has received, Grant reflects on the positive reception of his performance and the unique approach of the film's creators.

Hugh Grant [35:24]: "This film heretic is drawing great acclaim. You've got a new Bridget Jones movie coming."

Grant highlights how his portrayal of a villain has been well-received, with critics lauding his ability to deviate from his traditional roles.

Reflections on Career and Celebrity Culture

Grant delves into his career trajectory, from his breakout in romantic comedies to his current standing in more serious cinema. He also touches upon his stance on celebrity culture, expressing a desire to remain authentic rather than seeking fame for its own sake.

Hugh Grant [31:56]: "I prefer to try and stay in the former category than to be plonked into the latter category."

He discusses the challenges of navigating fame, especially with intrusive media practices, and his efforts to advocate for better treatment of public figures.

Future Projects and Creative Aspirations

Looking ahead, Grant shares his enthusiasm for future projects that align more closely with his creative interests. He mentions upcoming scripts that promise to challenge him further as an actor.

Hugh Grant [36:18]: "There are two scripts lying in my hotel at this moment that are quite juicy and weird and messed up, which is right up my alley."

Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with heartfelt congratulations from Willie Geist to Hugh Grant for his stellar performance in "Heretic" and his ongoing contributions to the film industry. Grant expresses gratitude and excitement for his future endeavors, signaling a promising path ahead.

Willie Geist [36:51]: "Hugh, congratulations. What they say is true. It's a brilliant film and you're great in it."

Notable Quotes:

Willie Geist [01:06]: "It's a meditation and an examination of religion and faith and all these things."
Hugh Grant [05:28]: "I sensed that there was fun to be had with him... I thought he was this, the trendy professor... I could have fun being him while being diabolical beneath the surface."
Hugh Grant [08:45]: "A24 came along, a little New York studio, and started saying, let's do original stuff, let's do weird stuff. And they recreated a burgeoning audience for actually going to the cinema."
Hugh Grant [10:12]: "I think it's a little sad that so much filmed entertainment has disappeared into streaming and we don't get to enjoy it in theaters the way that we used to."
Hugh Grant [31:56]: "I prefer to try and stay in the former category than to be plonked into the latter category."
Hugh Grant [36:18]: "There are two scripts lying in my hotel at this moment that are quite juicy and weird and messed up, which is right up my alley."
Willie Geist [36:51]: "Hugh, congratulations. What they say is true. It's a brilliant film and you're great in it."

This episode offers listeners a comprehensive look into Hugh Grant's evolving career, his dedication to his craft, and his perspectives on the changing landscape of the film industry. Through candid discussions and insightful reflections, Grant provides a deeper understanding of his latest work and his ongoing journey as an actor.

Transcript

Wes Anderson (0:00)

From director Wes Anderson. Focus Features and Indian Paintbrush present the Phoenician Scheme.

Benicio Del Toro (0:04)

It's my most important project of my lifetime.

Wes Anderson (0:07)

Meet Zsa Zsa Gorda.

Benicio Del Toro (0:08)

They keep getting assassinated unsuccessfully.

Wes Anderson (0:10)

So far, he's the most bold, most elusive, most wanted man on the planet.

Benicio Del Toro (0:15)

Help yourself to a hanger neck.

Hugh Grant (0:16)

You're very kind.

Wes Anderson (0:17)

Starring Benicio Del Toro, Mia Thrapleton, Michael Cera, Tom Hanks, Scarlett Johansson and Jeffrey Wright. The PhoEnician scheme, rated PG13, may be inappropriate for children under 13. In theaters everywhere. June 6th.

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Willie Geist (1:06)

Hey guys, Willie Geist here with another episode of the Sunday Sit down podcast. My thanks as always for clicking and listening along. Got a great one dialed up for you this week with one of the best and most prolific actors of, let's call it the last 30 years or so. He is the one and only Hugh Grant. He broke out, who could forget, in 1994 with Four Weddings and a Funeral, earning a Golden Globe award and a BAFTA for Best Actor and kind of became the go to romantic comedy guy in Hollywood. Did movies like Notting Hill, Love actually, Bridget Jones's Diary, Nine Months, the list goes on and on and on. But now he's doing something completely counter to all of that. And the truth is he hasn't really made a romantic comedy in the last 15 years or so. He's been doing much heavier, more serious and acclaimed work. A Very English Scandal, Florence Foster Jenkins, the Undoing, all of those performances earning him Golden Globe Awards and his latest. It is chilling. The movie's called Heretic. I'll let him explain it. But basically he is a creepy, somehow charming, apparently from the outside, kindly man who opens a door when two Mormon missionaries, two young women, knock on his door to spread the gospel. He invites them inside and we are set off on a wild psychological thriller that really becomes a horror movie. It's a meditation and an examination of religion and faith and all these things. It's very deep. He is so, so Good in it. Getting tons of acclaim for this performance, people talking about awards and everything. And I think probably why it works is he is initially his charming Hugh Grant self that you know and love from those romantic comedies, before turning to this incredibly dark character. So I'll let him explain. We talk about his career, his ride over the last 30 years through Hollywood, how things have changed for him, how he sees his life and career now, how he looks at celebrity and so much more. So sit back, relax right now and enjoy Hugh Grant on the Sunday Sit down podcast.