‘Speak No Evil’: Comparing the 2022 and 2024 Versions—Which One is Superior?

‘Speak No Evil’ started as a Danish film released in 2022 by Profile Pictures and Oak Motion Pictures. Despite its English dialogue, Blumhouse acquired the rights to create a North American remake. While both versions share a similar premise—a family entangled with another trio that leads to disaster—the endings diverge significantly.

Horror enthusiasts might wonder if both films are worth watching. The 2022 version holds an 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while the 2024 remake slightly edges it with 85%. The most notable difference lies in the endings. In the original, the family narrowly escapes a horrific fate, only to be caught when their car gets stuck. This results in a dark conclusion where they suffer a gruesome demise. In contrast, the remake offers a more hopeful ending: the protagonists survive, defeating their captors, including a particularly satisfying scene where Ant confronts his kidnapper.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Both films begin similarly, showcasing the families’ vacations before meeting their antagonists. However, the original provides more depth to Bjorn and Louise’s home life, portraying them as a happy couple. In the remake, the tension feels heightened but somewhat rushed, and the characters’ struggles are less relatable.

The remake also gives Agnes and Ant more agency compared to their original counterparts, enhancing their character arcs. The themes differ as well; the remake explores the thrill of the hunt, with Paddy revelling in the fear he instils, while the original subtly examines dominance and humiliation through Patrick’s actions.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

In terms of performances, Fedja van Huet and James McAvoy offer distinct takes on the antagonists, with McAvoy’s portrayal being particularly intense. Ultimately, those seeking brutal horror might prefer the original, while fans wanting satisfying resolutions should opt for the remake.

–Farheen Ali