The announcement of an English-language remake of Speak No Evil by Blumhouse and Universal initially raised skepticism, particularly because the original film, which features Danish and Dutch couples, was already predominantly in English. Released just two years prior to the remake, it seemed unnecessary to revisit a story so recent and not clearly aimed at a younger demographic.
Despite initial doubts, the release of the first trailers began to alleviate some of the concerns. These reservations were completely resolved after viewing the remake directed by James Watkins, known for Eden Lake. The new version has been praised for its brisk pace and thrilling approach, diverging from the original’s more intense horror to offer an engaging and fresh take on the concept of extreme politeness.
The plot of the remake follows Ben (Scoot McNairy) and Louise (Mackenzie Davis), an American couple dealing with the strains of relocation to London. During a vacation in Italy, they befriend the charismatic Paddy Feld (James McAvoy) and his family. However, what starts as a pleasant interaction soon escalates into a horrifying ordeal when the Felds’ dark intentions become apparent.
The film’s dynamic explores how different couples might react to such a nightmarish situation, contrasting with the original’s passive characters. In this remake, Ben and Louise take an active stance against their aggressors, adding a layer of empowerment to the narrative and opening the door for future adaptations that could explore various cultural or personal responses to similar predicaments.
The remake also includes a Danish family in a minor subplot, hinting at the cyclical nature of the Felds’ malevolent actions. The revelation of previous victims, including a mute child who discloses his tragic past, deepens the story’s impact. This fresh approach, akin to how the Scream series continually reinvents itself, suggests that the Speak No Evil remake could be the beginning of a series exploring different scenarios and characters.
