The limits of politeness: 'Speak No Evil', a horror with James McAvoy

For Louise and Ben, guests staying at the home of new friends, it's almost an endurance test. When will they reach the limits of their politeness?

In "Speak No Evil", they seem to be able to stand it for a long time at first. However, it is their shyness towards conflict that ultimately becomes their downfall in the new horror film starring actor James McAvoy.

The story may not be new, but it's one well worth revisiting.

The thriller by James Watkins is an adaptation of a Danish film of the same name from 2022 by Christian Tafdrup and Mads Tafdrup.

Watkins' version starts off harmoniously, with Louise (Mackenzie Davis) and Ben (Scoot McNairy) on holiday in Italy with their daughter Agnes.

When they meet the British couple Paddy (McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi) and their mute son Ant, they hit it off and soon accept an invitation from their new friends to visit them at their country home.

Their arrival sets the scene for a horror thriller to come. Paddy and Ciara's estate is located in a remote forest and can only be reached by car on dark roads.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that their hospitality is overshadowed by something the hosts aren't telling them. Ben and Louise start to feel more and more uncomfortable, and yet remain polite in order to avoid conflict.

"Speak No Evil" manages to take these social dynamics to the extreme. The result is a gripping and disturbing plot, albeit a very brutal one towards the end.

For a longest time, the horror takes place on a psychological level, as we wait for something to erupt. McAvoy excels as the charming but sinister country homeowner.