SPEAK NO EVIL (2024) – A serviceable remake but inferior to the original

Speak No Evil is a Hollywood remake of the 2022 Danish-Dutch film of the same name which is psychological horror movie about a family spending a vacation at the home of a newly acquainted family which turns into a nightmare. The original Danish-Dutch movie made quite an impact as it was well received and reviewed. What made that movie memorable was its slow subtle built up to the underlying horror, and a finale that left the viewers dumbfounded.

This remake follows the original rather faithfully. In fact, apart from the changes in nationalities of the key characters, the film was practically a scene for scene reproduction! If I have to make a comparison, I would say that this Americanised version lacked the subtlety and the benefit of novelty that the original had. Apart from James McAvoy, the rest of the cast were okay but never outstanding. James carried the movie well with his commanding screen presence and quite frankly, was the best thing about this version. His mood change, physique, and ability to articulate clearly embodies the part of a complex villain well.

One of the most significant departures from the original film occurs in the final act. Just when viewers believe they can predict the outcome, the remake introduces a twist that diverges from the original’s trajectory. This unexpected turn grabs attention and momentarily reinvigorates the narrative. However, the climax quickly conforms to the stereotypical Hollywood ending often seen in thrillers, adhering to a formulaic resolution that feels conventional.

The Hollywood remake of “Speak No Evil” offers an engaging viewing experience, yet it does not match the impact of the original. The ending, in particular, lacks the punch and lingering effect that the Danish-Dutch film achieved. This new version serves as an interesting comparison, highlighting how similar stories can be interpreted differently by filmmakers from distinct cultural backgrounds.

In summary, while the Hollywood “Speak No Evil” provides entertainment, it ultimately stands as a testament to the creative variances between cinematic cultures, illustrating the unique attributes that each brings to the table.