REVIEW: “Speak No Evil” (2024)

As a cinephile who has spent countless hours hunched over the silver screen, I must confess that my initial skepticism was palpable when I heard about the American remake of the 2022 Danish masterpiece, “Speak No Evil.” However, after witnessing this chilling adaptation, I can wholeheartedly admit that writer-director James Watkins has crafted a nerve-wracking and unsettling experience that stands on its own.

I must confess, I felt a bit apprehensive upon learning that an American remake of “Speak No Evil” is on its way so swiftly following the Danish original’s release in 2022. This exceptional and indelibly chilling film has left a lasting impression as one of the most nerve-wracking and brutally harrowing thrillers from recent years (for a comprehensive review, click HERE)).

2024‘s “Speak No Evil,” directed by James Watkins, is a follow-up to his 2016 film “Bastille Day.” This remake carries high expectations, but Watkins delivers an appropriately suspenseful and unnerving experience. The director appears to have great respect for the 2022 original, as evidenced by his adherence to the concept created by brothers Christian and Mads Tafdrup. Unfortunately, the American version falters in its reimagined ending. It lacks the courage to venture where its predecessor dared to go.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but rave about the captivating ensemble in “Speak No Evil.” The talented Mackenzie Davis, Scoot McNairy, Aisling Franciosi, and James McAvoy deliver truly outstanding performances. In this gripping tale, McNairy and Davis portray Ben and Louise, an American couple residing in London with their 11-year-old daughter Agnes, played by Alix West Lefler. As the story unfolds, we discover that their marriage is on shaky ground, prompting them to embark on a family vacation to picturesque Tuscany.

During their stay, Ben and Louise encounter Paddy and Ciara McAvoy and Franciosi, a British couple vacationing with their silent son Ant Hough. The families quickly become friendly and spend time together on several occasions before the end of their trips. As they part ways, Paddy and Ciara extend an invitation to Ben, Louise, and their family to visit them sometime in the future.

In London, Ben and Louise receive a postcard from Paddy inviting them for a short stay at his rural farm. Initially uncertain due to their lack of familiarity with the couple, they eventually decide to visit, hoping it might rejuvenate their marriage. Eventually, Ben, Louise, and their daughter Agnes arrive at Paddy and Ciara’s secluded countryside estate. Everything seems all right at first, save for a few miscommunications. However, as time passes, an ominous side of Paddy and his seemingly ordinary family emerges, making the stay increasingly awkward.

What struck me most about this remake was Watkins’ deliberate pacing. Instead of hurrying things along, he gradually increases the tension, simmering it rather than boiling it over immediately. Early on, it’s clear that something isn’t right, but he never gives away too much. This slow build-up creates an increasing feeling of discomfort before delivering a shocking finale. McAvoy excels at portraying morally questionable characters, and his performance as Paddy is no exception. He plays a significant role in creating the growing sense of unease, while Davis serves as a counterbalance, reflecting our own feelings as an audience.

The movie’s conclusion presents several departures from the 2022 version, enabling it to introduce some distinctive surprises. On one hand, I felt that Watkins could have been more daring in the last 15 minutes. He opted for a lighter conclusion instead of the darker one, catering to a broader audience. While this decision adds an extra layer of tension, it doesn’t deliver the same intense impact either.

“Speak No Evil” Offers a Blend of Suspense and Wit

2024-09-13 17:56

REVIEW: “Speak No Evil” (2024)

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