Before ‘Speak No Evil’ Hits Theaters, You Must Watch the Traumatizing Original Film

A truly exceptional horror film has the power to unsettle and haunt viewers long after the credits roll deeply. Few recent films achieve this as effectively as 2022’s ‘Speak No Evil’, directed by Christian Tafdrup. This chilling film, which has inspired an English-language remake set to hit theaters this weekend, delves into the darkest aspects of human nature with a story that keeps audiences questioning and replaying its most harrowing scenes.

The original ‘Speak No Evil’ revolves around Bjørn (Morten Burian) and Louise (Sidsel Siem Koch), a Danish couple enjoying a vacation in Tuscany with their daughter, Agnes (Liva Forsberg). Their seemingly perfect trip takes a dark turn when they befriend another family, Patrick (Fedja van Huêt), Karin (Karina Smulders), and their mute son, Abel (Marius Damslev). The unsettling atmosphere grows as they accept an invitation to visit the family’s home in the Netherlands, where the hosts’ initially charming demeanor gradually reveals a disturbing side.

Image Courtesy: IGN

The film’s horror stems from the subtle, psychological torment inflicted by the antagonists, who exploit social niceties to break down their guests. This manipulation, which may seem minor at first, builds into a deeply disturbing climax, showcasing the horror of maintaining politeness at the cost of one’s well-being.

The upcoming American remake, directed by James Watkins and featuring James McAvoy, promises a more action-driven narrative. While it may diverge from the original’s focus on psychological horror, the new version will likely push the boundaries of physical conflict and intensity. However, the core element of the original—exploiting the fear of social confrontation—remains a crucial aspect for both films.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

While watching the original isn’t mandatory for enjoying the remake, it provides valuable context and a deeper understanding of the unsettling themes that make ‘Speak No Evil’ so impactful. The original’s disturbing exploration of social dynamics and its harrowing portrayal of the consequences of failing to speak out set a high bar for the new adaptation.

–Farheen Ali