The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has criticized the upcoming horror film ‘Heretic’ starring Hugh Grant, claiming it misrepresents the religion.
The A24 film, set for release in November, centers on two young Mormon missionaries, played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, who encounter Mr. Reed, a sinister character played by Grant. Both Thatcher and East were former members of the Church but are no longer practicing.
The Utah-based church expressed concern over Hollywood portrayals that often rely on stereotypes and inaccuracies, potentially leading to harmful misconceptions about the faith.
While acknowledging that some depictions have been ‘fair and accurate’, LDS emphasized that sensationalized portrayals of missionaries and core beliefs are irresponsible and in poor taste.
In a statement, LDS said that the misrepresentation of the safety and conduct of its missionaries are detrimental to its mission of spreading the gospel.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has criticized the upcoming horror film ‘Heretic’ starring Hugh Grant , claiming it misrepresents the religion
The Utah-based church expressed concern over Hollywood portrayals that often rely on stereotypes and inaccuracies, potentially leading to harmful misconceptions about the faith
Although LDS did not point to a specific movie or show, their statement is speculated to be a reference to Grant’s upcoming movie.
‘We understand the fascination some in the media have with the Church, but regret that portrayals often rely on sensationalism and inaccuracies that do not fairly and fully reflect the lives of our Church members or the sacred beliefs that they hold dear,’ LDS said in a statement.
The institution also encouraged the public to seek reliable information about its teachings and members.
‘Listen to the voices and authentic experiences of individuals and families who find great joy and satisfaction in living these principles,’ the Church’s statement continued. ‘The true story of our faith is best seen in the countless lives of those who strive daily to follow our Savior Jesus Christ.’
Despite the Church’s concerns, Thatcher insisted on avoiding clichés about the religion in her portrayal.
‘I feel like we both did a good job of making it real and grounded and not a joke,’ Thatcher told ELLE Magazine in the interview.
LDS has a history with Hollywood. The 2013 drama ‘The Saratov Approach’ depicted the true story of two young LDS missionaries held captive in Russia. Additionally, the miniseries ‘Under the Banner of Heaven’ starring Andrew Garfield explored a detective’s investigation into a Utah murder, examining the complexities of faith.
In recent news, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has sparked fierce backlash from some members of the LDS church over its depiction of the religion.
LDS said that the misrepresentation of the safety and conduct of its missionaries are detrimental to its mission of spreading the gospel. Although LDS did not point to a specific movie or show, their statement is speculated to be a reference to Grant’s upcoming movie.
Although the controversial reality show doesn’t premiere until September, it’s already caused a firestorm online and ignited discussions about what it means to be a modern day Mormon.
The series follows a group of glamorous influencer moms who have their faith and friendships rocked by a couple-swapping scandal.
The cast’s social media accounts have been flooded with negative comments since Hulu announced the show on July 29, calling out the cast for portraying LDS in a negative light.
