Written & directed by James Watkins
By Sara:
Speak No Evil follows an American family—Ben (Scoot McNairy), Louise (Mackenzie Davis), and their daughter Agnes (Alix West Lefler)—who meet a British couple, Paddy (James McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi), while vacationing in Italy. When invited to their secluded estate in the British countryside, Louise hesitates but ultimately agrees. Soon, Louise begins to feel uneasy as Paddy’s charming demeanor masks a toxic personality. His passive-aggressive remarks, disturbing behavior toward his disabled son, Ant (Dan Hough), and manipulative tactics make her question their safety. But Ben, eager to fit in with the charismatic Paddy, dismisses her concerns, leading to escalating tension and eventual danger.
McAvoy’s portrayal of Paddy is chilling, effortlessly shifting from friendly to menacing with subtle facial cues that reveal his darker nature. Mackenzie Davis excels as Louise, a protective mother who grows increasingly wary, while Scoot McNairy captures Ben’s insecurity and passivity, making him an easy target for Paddy’s manipulation. Alix West Lefler stands out as Agnes, whose anxiety and sensitivity heighten her awareness of the growing threat, and Dan Hough, in his debut role, brings a quiet but haunting presence to Ant. Aisling Franciosi gives depth to Ciara, adding complexity to a character torn between vulnerability and complicity.
Writer / director James Watkins masterfully builds tension, weaving emotional depth with an ever-increasing sense of dread. His use of dark humour adds unsettling moments that further reveal Paddy’s sinister side. While the film’s conclusion may feel rushed to some, Speak No Evil remains a gripping, thought-provoking thriller. The strong performances, especially McAvoy’s, make it one of the year’s standout horrors, offering a disturbing exploration of toxic relationships and the dangers of ignoring red flags in seemingly harmless friendships.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Nuclear Families
A Horrifying Crescendo
The Farmhouse of Horrors
Feature Commentary with Writer/Director James Watkins
