Release: September 13, 2024, available on streaming platforms Peacock, Prime
Speak no Evil movie was written and directed by James Watkins. The movie is a remake of the 2022 Danish-Dutch film by the same name.
The movie follows an American couple named Louise and Ben Dalton, on vacation in Italy with their daughter, they meet and befriended another a British couple Paddy and Ciara and their son Ant. Upon returning home (London), the Daltons received an invitation from Paddy & Ciara inviting them over for a weekend stay at their remote farmhouse in Devon. Upon arrival, the family is warmly welcomed to the farmhouse but, as they begin spending time in the house, is where strange events are beginning to unravel, and this is where the story begins.
As a critic, I had the opportunity of seeing this film a week before it was released in theaters. In addition, since this is a remake, I also watched the original Danish–Dutch version for comparisons. Conversely, you’re bound to secrecy until after the film has been released so, this is now the perfect time to discuss since its available on most streaming platforms.
First to start off, the movie had an amazing cast, actor James McAvory, who played Paddy did an amazing job, an incredible versatile Scottish actor who played in couple of my favorites such as Split, Glass, IT Chapter Two, X-Men and so many others. So, I was excited to see this movie, playing the tole of the “bad guy,” portraying toxic male masculinity to the fullest and how well his character balances that with Ciara played by Aisling Franciosi.
On the other hand, the movie portrayed Louise’s husband, Ben Dalton, as a pusillanimous, wishy-washy weak character who does not win in any arguments with not only his wife but, preteen daughter as well. His character was the opposite of Paddy, who’s the more masculine dominant male that can easily be manipulated by Paddy and, this does show the reality of how easily some men today can be tempted by the more dominant male. Evidently, how they feel isolated with their emotions, lack of respect from others including, the closest to them, their significant other and their children. Therefore, I can appreciate the authenticity, realism, exploration & depth of human psyche dark side, human morality and fragility of trust that feels horrifically genuine.
Overall, this movie delivered on its intended purpose, to provide an intense psychological unsettling horror in a slow burning narrative depiction that gradually climaxes into extraordinary heights.
