There have been two really good horror movies the last few years to really mess with me psychologically. Nefarious, a definite recommend, and this one. Both movies feature some of the most vicious performances from their antagonist and after watching the movie, both stayed in my head afterwards.
The story, like Nefarious is basic and simple and relies more on characters than special effects. What happens here is one of the best thriller/horror movies that kept me on the edge of my seat. Once Hugh Grant is introduced everything seems to begin like any other day for two Mormon missionaries. No spoilers other than this is something you just have to see for yourself. The movie evolves into a twisted game of cat and mouse where evil Hugh Grant sheds his well spoken, educated speeches for some off the wall humor and terror. What keeps you going here is the intensity on screen where I must say the audience I saw this with was completely silent. It's like the movie engulfs you with a sense of uncertainty. I mean, I'm not really a fan of psychological horror films but this is one that's still in my head.
If there is one small complaint like a lot of A24 films the ending can be sort of a let down. I actually found the conclusion to be satisfying because it still it stuck with me even after the movie ended. This could be not only the best horror movie to come out this year but might be the best movie of the year. Hugh Grant deserves Oscar consideration for his performance because not since Anthony Hopkins's Hannibal Lector or Heath Ledger's Joker, has there ever been a more scarier villain. One that doesn't rely so much on brawn but brains to scare you.