‘Speak No Evil’ Is a Screaming Success

Universal Pictures’ latest horror release, “Speak No Evil,” made an impressive splash at the global box office over the weekend, earning an estimated $20.8 million in its debut. It was the top new release for the weekend, and was the second highest-performing film overall. Directed by James Watkins, the film is a remake of the 2022 Danish hit of the same name and has quickly garnered critical acclaim, with an 85 percent "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Starring James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Aisling Franciosi and Scoot McNairy, “Speak No Evil” delves into the psychological horror of an American couple who, along with their daughter, visit a British family's idyllic country estate—only for the dream holiday to spiral into a terrifying nightmare.

McAvoy leads the cast with what Observer called a "galvanizing centerpiece performance," as his character navigates the increasingly sinister situation. The horror in the film is not just in the scares, but in the way it preys on everyday anxieties, making it a standout in the genre. According to The Wrap, it is “an elegant and smartly executed horror movie... made for audiences with an attention span and high standards.”

Beneath the terror lies a deeper message about the complexities of adult relationships and the social pressures to maintain civility even when survival instincts scream otherwise. Watkins weaves these themes into a tightly-paced narrative, making “Speak No Evil” not only a horror film but a thought-provoking exploration of human nature.

As the R-rated film continues its box office run, its blend of unsettling performances, tense storytelling and deeper psychological fears promises to leave audiences both haunted and captivated.

“Speak No Evil” is playing in theaters now and will be available for licensing from Swank soon.