James McAvoy delivers a powerhouse performance in the psychological thriller Speak No Evil, now streaming on Netflix, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats. The 2024 remake of the 2022 Danish-Dutch film has garnered widespread acclaim for its masterful tension-building and shocking climax.
Plot and Cast
The film follows an American couple, Louise and Ben Dalton (Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy), holidaying in Italy when they meet a charming British family, Paddy and Ciara (James McAvoy and Aisling Franciosi). The Brits invite them to stay at their remote Devon farmhouse for the weekend. What begins as an idyllic getaway soon descends into pure terror as the Americans discover their hosts have sinister plans.
McAvoy, known for The Last King of Scotland, plays the menacing Paddy, while Franciosi (The Fall) portrays his wife. Davis (Halt and Catch Fire) and McNairy (True Detective) round out the lead cast.
Critical and Audience Reception
On IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes, viewers have praised the film's slow-burn approach. One IMDb user wrote: “The setup is masterful. Nothing big happens this entire act, yet I found myself smiling and intrigued. It's a perfect example of how you can still create intrigue without needing action.” Another said: “James McAvoy—what a powerhouse. Honestly, just put this guy in every horror movie from now on, especially if he's the villain.”
A third reviewer gave it 9/10, noting: “This movie had my anxiety level through the roof—but that's exactly what it was supposed to do. James McAvoy is so incredibly good at making the audience feel uneasy throughout the film.” A fourth added: “The ending had me on edge, screaming at the screen. It's been a while since a thriller made me feel this way.”
One Rotten Tomatoes user simply stated: “Loved this movie. Kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.”
Production and Availability
Filmed in Groznjan, Croatia, and the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire (standing in for Devon), Speak No Evil is now available exclusively on Netflix. The film has been called a “heart-racing thriller” and a “near-perfect” addition to the horror genre.
