Speak No Evil (2024)

Release Date: September 13, 2024

Director: James Watkins

Starring: James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis , Scoot McNairy, Alix West Lefler, Aisling Franciosi

Walking into this movie, I wasn’t entirely sure what I was in for. I hadn’t seen the 2022 original, so I was going in with no expectations and a blank slate—always a bit risky for a thriller, but hey, I took the plunge. After watching it, I can say this: Speak No Evil definitely had its moments, even if the beginning was a bit slow to get going.

The film centers around Ben and Louise Dalton, played by Scoot McNairy and Mackenzie Davis, an ordinary couple invited by their British friends, Paddy and Ciara, to a peaceful country getaway. Everything seems innocent enough at first—nice people, scenic surroundings, wine-soaked dinners. But if we’ve learned anything from movies about too-friendly strangers in isolated places, it’s that something sinister is bound to happen. As expected, Speak No Evil plays on that dread, though it takes its sweet time getting there.

First Impressions: A Slow Burn That’s a Bit Too Slow

To be perfectly honest, the first half of the movie was a bit of a slog. The tension between the couples felt more like watching an awkward dinner party where someone forgot to bring the wine than a building horror-thriller. Ben and Louise are clearly uneasy, but we’re left wondering why for a little too long. It’s a slow burn in the truest sense—like, super slow. I found myself tapping my foot, waiting for something, anything, to happen that would snap me out of the awkward social tension that felt more uncomfortable than thrilling.

But then, somewhere around the middle of the film, things start to shift. The tension tightens like a coiled spring, and you realize all that polite, forced interaction was just the tip of the iceberg. It’s not until the second half that the movie kicks into gear, and that’s when it really starts to get interesting. If you can make it through the slow setup, the payoff is worth it—though it may take a little patience.

James McAvoy Steals the Show

Let’s talk about the standout of the film: James McAvoy. McAvoy plays Paddy, the increasingly paranoid and controlling husband, whose sinister nature becomes more apparent as the story unfolds. He walks the fine line between overly polite host and emotionally unhinged man. McAvoy’s performance is stellar—he nails the slow-brewing paranoia, making his descent into fear and desperation feel genuine. As things start to unravel, McAvoy really leans into the role, and his reactions to the strange behaviors around him are spot-on.

The film lives and dies on his shoulders, and thankfully, McAvoy’s got broad enough acting chops to carry it. You can feel his mounting discomfort and suppressed rage as he tries to keep things civil for the sake of his family, but his frustration builds in a way that keeps you engaged—even when the plot takes its time getting to the goods.

Louise: The Unexpected Badass

Now, while McAvoy’s Paddy is the emotional core, the real surprise of the film is Mackenzie Davis as Louise Dalton. Initially, she appears as a supportive partner, but as the story progresses, she reveals a fierce determination and resilience. Louise transforms from an uncertain participant in a dangerous situation to a proactive character who fights back against the escalating horror.

Without spoiling too much, let’s just say that Louise’s character arc is compelling and unexpected. Davis delivers a powerful performance, showcasing both vulnerability and strength, making her one of the most dynamic characters in the film. Her journey adds a layer of depth to the narrative and serves as a critical counterbalance to McAvoy’s increasingly unhinged Paddy.

The Setting: Beauty with a Sinister Twist

The movie is set against the backdrop of a quiet, idyllic countryside—a classic setup for a film that deals with underlying horror. Directed by James Watkins, the serene landscapes amplify the film's eerie atmosphere. The open fields and tranquil surroundings should feel like a refuge, but as the tension ramps up, they start to feel claustrophobic. There’s no escape, and that’s where the brilliance of the setting lies.

When Things Finally Get Interesting

It’s in the second half of the film where the tension really kicks in, and you start to realize just how messed up this situation is. Paddy and Ciara’s friendly demeanor begins to crack, and everything about their hospitality turns menacing. You can practically hear the unspoken words hanging in the air as Ben and Louise try to figure out how to gracefully exit the weekend without causing a scene.

And then, like a switch flips, the film’s horror elements kick in. No jump scares, no ghosts—just the kind of psychological horror that makes you feel deeply uncomfortable. It’s a bit of a slow build to get there, but once the trap is sprung, the movie goes full throttle into nerve-wracking territory. The film delves into manipulation, control, and how far someone will go to maintain social politeness—even when their life could be at stake. Watching Ben and Louise navigate the increasingly bizarre and disturbing behavior of their hosts is gripping, even if it takes a while to get there.

The Ending: A Bit Too Predictable

While the second half definitely picks up the pace and delivers some real thrills, the ending felt a bit too predictable for my taste. Without spoiling too much, the climax didn’t quite land with the gut-punch I was hoping for. It’s not that it wasn’t effective, but if you’re paying attention, you can see where things are headed from a mile away. I was waiting for a final twist that would knock me off my feet, but it never quite arrived.

Final Thoughts

Speak No Evil (2024) isn’t a bad film at all. It’s a slow-burn psychological thriller that rewards patience but also tests it in the early moments. James McAvoy is phenomenal in the lead role, balancing fear, paranoia, and internal conflict like a pro. And let’s not forget Mackenzie Davis, who evolves from a supportive partner into a fierce, resilient character who fights back against the mounting horror.

If you can endure the slow start, the film definitely picks up and delivers a tense, unsettling ride. While the ending may be a bit predictable, the journey there is filled with enough suspense and strong performances to make it worth the watch. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s certainly not a bad way to spend a couple of hours at the cinema—especially if you’re in the mood for something that slowly crawls under your skin.

My final rating? ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)