Speak No Evil

r96sk 9/13/2024 6:23:08 PM 8.4

<em>'Speak No Evil'</em> is supremely well done! I felt unsettled from pretty much the get-go. That's because you can see the general direction that the movie is going to head, though that doesn't hampen the feeling of unease that is present all the way through. I did actually think whilst watching that the film was being a tad dragged out, though by the credits I was fully sold on what I had just seen. James McAvoy is outstanding, I knew he was capable of portraying such a creepy and unhinged character from seeing some of his other work. <em>'Split'</em> for one, though also, oddly, <em>'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'</em>; I always got creeped out when we first see his Mr. Tumnus. Mackenzie Davis impresses as well, as do Scoot McNairy and Aisling Franciosi in fairness; youngsters Alix West Lefler and Dan Hough do well too. The final scene with the latter is quite something, I thought it was going to play out slightly differently (i.e. what Ron does to Carl, for any fellow <em>'The Walking Dead'</em> fans) so to see it go they way it did was unexpected - but, without question, welcome. I shall no doubt check out the Danish original at some point in the future.

Manuel São Bento 9/16/2024 7:41:16 AM 8.4

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://talkingfilms.net/speak-no-evil-review-an-americanized-remake-for-better-and-worse/ "Speak No Evil may not reach the visceral depth of the Danish original, but it offers a more accessible, commercially appealing approach. The changes in story and tone may divide fans of the 2022 psychological thriller, but there's something to be said about the effectiveness of the stellar performances - James McAvoy is mesmerizing - and the more complex dynamic between the central characters. The thematic exploration of politeness and the pressure to adhere to social norms, even when they conflict with personal safety, remains thought-provoking, though the credit here goes to the original. For those who prefer a "softer" experience in terms of emotional and physical violence, this remake is a valid version that, while not surpassing the original, manages to deliver a distinct experience for the audience. After all, both stories can coexist and appeal to different viewers. Pick your favorite or, better yet, enjoy both." Rating: B+

Chandler Danier 12/4/2024 2:28:37 AM 8.4

I don't really recall the other one but I saw it before. I guess it's better etc. The actors do a good job. I liked watching them do scenes. Russel Crowe has lost a lot of weight. Kim Basinger knows how to work a hammer. It was all a bit drawn out in the end now wasn't it. I skipped seemingly large amounts of house running. It loses the tension, becomes monotonous for the finale. If you haven't seen the other one and you like this one, I think that's fine. I like it too.