Movie Review: Speak No Evil (2022)
Synopsis
"Speak No Evil," directed by Christian Tafdrup, is a chilling psychological horror film that delves into the themes of social etiquette and the darkness that can lie beneath a seemingly benign facade. The story begins with two families meeting during a holiday in Tuscany, Italy — a Danish couple, Bjørn and Louise, along with their daughter, Lin, and a quirky Dutch family, Patrick and Karin, who have a son, Abel.
Initially, their interactions are laced with warmth and laughter, emphasising the camaraderie that can bloom between different cultures. However, as the Danish family visits the Dutch family in their home, the tone shifts drastically. What begins as an uncomfortable observation of differing beliefs and parenting styles escalates into a disturbing descent into moral ambiguity and horror. Faced with the peculiar behaviours and unconventional practices of their hosts, Bjørn and Louise grapple with the balancing act of polite diplomacy versus making a stand for their values and principles.
This moral conundrum only deepens as the exchanges become increasingly bizarre and unsettling. They are torn between their instincts to protect their child and their desire to remain courteous and open-minded, leading to a slow-burning tension that spirals into a nightmarish climax. As allegiances fray and trust erodes, the film explores how far kindness can extend before it morphs into complicity in a horrifying reality.
Main Cast
- Morten Burian as Bjørn
- Sidsel Siem Koch as Louise
- Fedja van Huêt as Patrick
- Karina Smulders as Karin
- Liva M. H. Tønnesen as Lin
- Josephine M. D. Schols as Abel
Review
"Speak No Evil" is a masterclass in tension-building, intricately layered with societal commentary on the damage of blind politeness and the consequences of inaction. The film’s strength lies in its ability to play on the audience’s discomfort as it examines the complexities of social interactions. From the outset, it cleverly sets up a false sense of safety amid idyllic surroundings. The cinematography by Manuel Alberto Clair captures the contrasting warmth of Tuscany and the ominous nature that lurks just beneath the surface.
The casting choices are commendable, with Morten Burian delivering an emotionally resonant performance as Bjørn. His portrayal of a well-meaning father attempting to do the right thing while grappling with his own discomfort and moral dilemmas is strikingly relatable. Sidsel Siem Koch plays Louise with a blend of strength and vulnerability that juxtaposes Bjørn’s character brilliantly. Their dynamic highlights a couple at odds with how to react to escalating situations, embodying the struggle many face when social niceties collide with primal instincts to protect their loved ones.
Meanwhile, Fedja van Huêt and Karina Smulders shine as the unsettling Patrick and Karin. Their performances exude an unsettling charm, which is both alluring and disconcerting, making it difficult for both Bjørn and the audience to decipher their true intentions. The couple’s odd parenting choices are highlighted at the film’s unsettling climax, leaving viewers to question the boundaries of polite social interaction.
Liva M. H. Tønnesen as Lin is particularly effective in her portrayal of a child caught between the absurdities of adult behaviour, displaying a mixture of innocence and fear that serves to heighten the tension of the film’s latter half. The performance by Josephine M. D. Schols as Abel is likewise critical, as the unsettling nature of his character serves as a catalyst for the family’s gradual descent into unease.
One of the film’s most striking aspects is its exploration of the theme of societal expectations. Tafdrup meticulously illustrates how the insistence on maintaining polite decorum can prevent individuals from acknowledging the red flags in their surroundings. As tensions mount, the unbearable weight of being "nice" turns lethal, prompting viewers to ponder the dangers of sacrificing one’s boundaries for the sake of politeness and politeness.
The narrative structure of "Speak No Evil" effectively builds tension through stark contrasts between the serene settings and the psychological turmoil of its characters. The carefully crafted dialogue adds a layer of sophistication, reflecting both the difficulties of scriptwriting for horror films and the miscommunication that leads to disaster. The film revels in its discomfort, pulling the audience deeper into the narrative until it becomes an inescapable psychological experience.
However, "Speak No Evil" is not without its controversies. Some may argue that the film leans too heavily on its slow burn pacing, which could lead to a lack of engagement for viewers expecting traditional horror beats. Others may find the culmination of events implausibly extreme. Nevertheless, the film’s commitment to its themes of morality, social expectations, and the nature of evil is commendable. It addresses pertinent questions about the price of politeness, challenging viewers to consider their own moral compasses when faced with uncomfortable situations.
The film also serves as a cautionary tale about parental instincts and the sometimes blurry line drawn between cultural differences and personal boundaries. By the time the film reaches its harrowing conclusion, audiences are left grappling with questions that linger long after the credits roll. It demands introspection on one’s willingness—or reluctance—to stand up for their beliefs in the face of overwhelming oddity or danger.
Visually, the film’s cinematography is hauntingly beautiful. The stunning vistas of Tuscany serve as a stark contrast to the horror unfolding within the households portrayed. The use of light and shadow plays a critical role in framing the emotional undertones of scenes. This brilliant visual representation functions as an eerie metaphor for the themes of duality present in the narrative.
Conclusion
"Speak No Evil" is an unsettling yet thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche, enriching the horror genre with its psychological depth. The performances capture the essence of complicity in a thoughtless world, and the pacing, while deliberate, artfully crafts a palpable tension that escalates to a horrifying climax. It serves as a reminder of how simply being polite can lead to catastrophic consequences when we fail to assert our inherent moral values.
In sum, "Speak No Evil" not only stands as a riveting piece of cinema but also leaves a lasting impact by prompting audiences to reflect on their own behaviours in social situations. With its engaging narrative, standout performances, and beautiful yet haunting cinematography, this film is a worthy addition to the horror genre.
Score: 8.5/10
