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“Speak No Evil” Delivers Thrills with 80s-90s Flair and Modern Tensions

by Barbara

“Speak No Evil,” directed and written by James Watkins, is a contemporary homage to the suspenseful thrillers of the late 1980s and early 1990s, such as “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle,” “Unlawful Entry,” and “Fatal Attraction.” This new film, an adaptation of the Danish original of the same name, effectively channels the tension and drama of those classic psychological thrillers where the veneer of bourgeois respectability is shattered by sinister forces lurking just beyond the surface.

Set against the backdrop of a hard-pressed American family relocated to London, the story follows Ben Dalton (Scoot McNairy), his wife Louise (Mackenzie Davis), and their daughter Agnes (Alix West Lefler). Their lives, already under strain, take a darker turn when they encounter another family—the seemingly affable Paddy (James McAvoy), his young wife Ciara (Aisling Franciosi), and their mute son Ant (Dan Hough)—while vacationing in Italy. Invited to Paddy’s remote countryside home, the Daltons soon find themselves in a nightmarish situation as their hosts’ disturbing behavior reveals a more sinister agenda.

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Watkins’ adaptation captures the essence of the original Danish film while introducing notable changes, particularly in its extended and altered ending. This version provides the Daltons with a prolonged confrontation that includes improvised weaponry and escalating violence, deviating from the original’s more abrupt and unsettling conclusion. This shift may displease fans of the original’s darker ending but is designed to cater to audiences seeking a more traditional thriller experience.

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The film thrives on audience engagement, encouraging reactions such as shouting at the screen in disbelief as the Daltons make questionable decisions. These moments, while frustrating, are integral to the film’s appeal, emphasizing the psychological manipulation and desperation experienced by the characters. The tension is palpable as the Daltons repeatedly find themselves ensnared by their hosts’ increasingly outrageous behavior.

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Performances are a standout element of “Speak No Evil,” with James McAvoy delivering a particularly compelling portrayal of Paddy. His complex character balances warmth and menace, reminiscent of early Russell Crowe roles, blending a seemingly genuine affection for his family with a threatening undercurrent. Scoot McNairy and Mackenzie Davis provide strong support, particularly in their nuanced, non-verbal exchanges that highlight the strain on their marriage.

Despite its engaging premise and strong performances, the film’s portrayal of the Daltons’ repeated return to a hazardous situation may draw criticism for its perceived implausibility. However, this cycle mirrors the dynamics of abusive relationships, reflecting the film’s deeper commentary on the difficulty of breaking free from toxic situations.

In summary, “Speak No Evil” is a thrilling throwback to an era of suspenseful storytelling, elevated by powerful performances and a gripping narrative. While its adaptation deviates from the original’s bleak finale, it successfully delivers an engaging and intense experience, making it a notable entry in the genre of psychological thrillers.

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