New Film 'Heretic' Explores Faith and Doubt

The sequel 'Gladiator 2' attempts to mirror the original film's themes of revenge and resilience but ultimately falls short, lacking the emotional depth that resonated in the first installment. Paul Mescal plays Hanno, a soldier turned slave seeking vengeance against General Acacius, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, while Denzel Washington adds a notable performance as Macrinus, a gladiator owner with ambitions of his own. In contrast, A24's 'Heretic' explores the complexities of faith and human interaction with religion through a darkly comedic lens, featuring Hugh Grant as the cynical Mr. Reed who challenges two Mormon missionaries. The film is characterized by its nuanced portrayal of characters, each embodying both strengths and flaws, leading to a gripping narrative. Meanwhile, The Asylum's 'Heretics' is a horror mockbuster capitalizing on A24's release, focusing on a group of teens trapped by a dark cult, showcasing the genre's tendency for exploitation. Additionally, the satirical horror 'The Substance' critiques Hollywood's obsession with youth and beauty, presenting a grotesque narrative that examines ageism and the fleeting nature of fame.