One word that aptly encapsulates the feeling after watching the end of many horror films is a resounding: Gwahhhhhh. This is precisely how I felt after witnessing the bleak and painful conclusion of "Speak No Evil."
The film, as a whole, is astutely produced. From the title, sinister score, and shrewd camerawork down to the finer details and subtle ominous hints throughout, it coalesces into one of the most unsettling films I've encountered in quite some time. As a family man, it struck a particularly nerve-wracking chord, leaving me with a different perspective on the nature of evil in the world.
"Speak No Evil" is a masterclass in uncomfortable tension. While some may interpret it as a slow burn, I found myself utterly engrossed, almost chewing my nails in anticipation of the social awkwardness and authentic realism. It unearthed why I harbour trust issues when meeting new people.
I wasn't sure how to feel about Bjorn (Morten). As a father myself, rather than sobbing uncontrollably when faced with adversity or no escape, I would have clawed at faces, gouged out eyeballs, and chewed into body parts if it means protecting my daughter. Hell, I mean you must be aware you are not going to be allowed to live, so you might as well take who you can down with you to save your loved ones.
The acting was close to faultless, and the eerie atmosphere was constantly a chilling reminder that something was amiss. What was nerve-wrenching, The family was on their way to freedom halfway through the film before an upset Agnes stresses about her plush bunny, and Bjorn decides it is best to retreat back into the unknown to retrieve the constantly disappearing Ninus.
There were subtle indicators that all was not as it seemed. Abel appeared to be at the centre of it all. Patrick's visibly aggressive approach with Abel left a bitter taste, while Karina's attempts to discipline and bond with Agnes hinted at underlying tensions.
Themes that are explored revolve around Human Psychology and many modern-day fears of not understanding what people are capable of. For starters, with my trust issues, I couldn't fathom the thought of leaving my children with a babysitter. The introduction of the children's minder for the evening Muhajid in this instance feels a little unnatural, and we aren't introduced to any other characters but for Patrick and Karina. The eerily empty restaurant raises unsettling questions. A pivotal moment in this particular scene was the bill, which is deftly manipulated by Patrick, ultimately leading to Bjorn footing the entire evening's expenses.
Following a poignant scene towards the film's conclusion, the music adopts a melancholic tone, foreboding an inevitable resolution. The subsequent car ride, steeped in regret, seeps into the viewer, setting a brutally sombre mood. The subsequent scene, where they are instructed to undress and step into the quarry, a location previously visited by Patrick and Bjorn, felt stark, desolate, and barbaric. It was a moment that left me speechless, struggling to contain the lump in my throat.
The ending of "Speak No Evil" is heartrending and gut-wrenching, evoking a visceral sense of unease and a profound distaste for the harsh realities of life. While I'd love to shower this film with praise for what it did well, I believe a compelling story benefits from elements of retribution or vulnerability, where the villains face consequences. Nevertheless, this film resonates as a profoundly sorrowful narrative, one that will linger with you long after the credits roll.
7/10.
The film, as a whole, is astutely produced. From the title, sinister score, and shrewd camerawork down to the finer details and subtle ominous hints throughout, it coalesces into one of the most unsettling films I've encountered in quite some time. As a family man, it struck a particularly nerve-wracking chord, leaving me with a different perspective on the nature of evil in the world.
"Speak No Evil" is a masterclass in uncomfortable tension. While some may interpret it as a slow burn, I found myself utterly engrossed, almost chewing my nails in anticipation of the social awkwardness and authentic realism. It unearthed why I harbour trust issues when meeting new people.
I wasn't sure how to feel about Bjorn (Morten). As a father myself, rather than sobbing uncontrollably when faced with adversity or no escape, I would have clawed at faces, gouged out eyeballs, and chewed into body parts if it means protecting my daughter. Hell, I mean you must be aware you are not going to be allowed to live, so you might as well take who you can down with you to save your loved ones.
The acting was close to faultless, and the eerie atmosphere was constantly a chilling reminder that something was amiss. What was nerve-wrenching, The family was on their way to freedom halfway through the film before an upset Agnes stresses about her plush bunny, and Bjorn decides it is best to retreat back into the unknown to retrieve the constantly disappearing Ninus.
There were subtle indicators that all was not as it seemed. Abel appeared to be at the centre of it all. Patrick's visibly aggressive approach with Abel left a bitter taste, while Karina's attempts to discipline and bond with Agnes hinted at underlying tensions.
Themes that are explored revolve around Human Psychology and many modern-day fears of not understanding what people are capable of. For starters, with my trust issues, I couldn't fathom the thought of leaving my children with a babysitter. The introduction of the children's minder for the evening Muhajid in this instance feels a little unnatural, and we aren't introduced to any other characters but for Patrick and Karina. The eerily empty restaurant raises unsettling questions. A pivotal moment in this particular scene was the bill, which is deftly manipulated by Patrick, ultimately leading to Bjorn footing the entire evening's expenses.
Following a poignant scene towards the film's conclusion, the music adopts a melancholic tone, foreboding an inevitable resolution. The subsequent car ride, steeped in regret, seeps into the viewer, setting a brutally sombre mood. The subsequent scene, where they are instructed to undress and step into the quarry, a location previously visited by Patrick and Bjorn, felt stark, desolate, and barbaric. It was a moment that left me speechless, struggling to contain the lump in my throat.
The ending of "Speak No Evil" is heartrending and gut-wrenching, evoking a visceral sense of unease and a profound distaste for the harsh realities of life. While I'd love to shower this film with praise for what it did well, I believe a compelling story benefits from elements of retribution or vulnerability, where the villains face consequences. Nevertheless, this film resonates as a profoundly sorrowful narrative, one that will linger with you long after the credits roll.
7/10.