The 2022 film **Speak No Evil** is a Danish psychological horror-thriller where a family’s vacation friendship with another couple turns into a terrifying and nightmarish ordeal. It is widely considered worth watching for fans of intense, slow-burn horror, but be warned, its bleak and shocking ending is famously disturbing.
Imagine a picturesque vacation where you befriend a charming family. Now, imagine that idyllic connection slowly and terrifyingly unraveling into a nightmare. This is the chilling premise of the Danish psychological horror film, Speak No Evil (2022). This isn’t a movie that relies on cheap jump scares. Instead, it masterfully builds an insidious atmosphere of dread that will burrow deep into your psyche, leaving an unsettling mark long after the credits roll.
But beyond the critical acclaim, the big question remains: is this horrifying thriller truly worth your time? Here at IWatchMovies Blog, where we offer dozens of individual movie reviews, we are diving into the unsettling world of Speak No Evil (2022) to help you decide. We’ll dissect its increasingly uncomfortable plot, analyze the unique power of its psychological scares, and explore why its infamous ending has sparked so much debate. With a highly anticipated American remake set for 2024, now is the perfect moment to experience the original film that inspired it all.
So, if you’re ready to confront the dark truths lurking beneath a polite surface, let’s start by unraveling the twisted tale that makes this movie so unforgettable.
What is the plot in Speak No Evil?
A Vacation Friendship Gone Wrong
The plot of Speak No Evil (2022) kicks off in sunny Tuscany, where a Danish family—Bjørn, Louise, and their quiet daughter, Agnes—is enjoying a relaxing vacation. Their path crosses with a Dutch family, Patrick and Karin, and their son, Abel. The two families hit it off immediately, sharing pleasant conversations and enjoying each other’s company. As their time in Italy concludes, they exchange contact information, and Patrick and Karin extend a warm invitation for the Danes to visit their rural home in the Netherlands. This seemingly innocent gesture sets the stage for the horror to come.
The Unsettling Weekend
Weeks later, Bjørn, Louise, and Agnes accept the invitation and travel to the Dutch countryside, expecting a pleasant reunion. However, the atmosphere feels off almost immediately upon their arrival. Patrick and Karin’s behavior is unsettlingly pushy and intrusive, and they consistently disregard social boundaries. As small but persistent acts of rudeness pile up, Bjørn and Louise grow increasingly uncomfortable. Still, determined to remain polite and avoid conflict, they suppress their concerns, unwilling to “make a scene.”
The Dutch couple’s actions grow more brazen as they disregard personal space and openly disrespect their guests’ beliefs. These constant microaggressions create a tense and suffocating atmosphere, transforming the family’s initial discomfort into palpable dread. Trapped by their own desire to be polite, the Danish family feels unable to confront their hosts or leave. This inability to act leads to the brutal reveal of Patrick and Karin’s true, horrifying intentions, as the film escalates to a shocking and unforgettable climax that exposes the dangers of social niceties pushed to their extreme.
Is Speak No Evil very scary?
The Power of Psychological Dread
Is Speak No Evil (2022) truly scary? Yes, but not in the way many horror films operate. This Danish gem masterfully avoids cheap jump scares, instead building an almost unbearable sense of psychological dread. As a slow burn, the film focuses on subtle discomfort and escalating social anxieties to create a truly unsettling experience.
The horror here is deeply ingrained in human behavior, exploring the perils of politeness and our inherent desire to avoid confrontation. Audiences often feel immense frustration watching the main characters make choices born of social paralysis, which creates a terrifyingly relatable scenario. The movie taps into a fear we all understand: What if you’re too polite for your own good? As a result, the tension becomes palpable, wrapping around you like a cold, unseen presence that leaves you constantly on edge.
This film is a masterclass in atmospheric horror, showing that true terror can emerge from everyday situations without monsters or elaborate special effects. Just two families, a remote location, and a growing sense of unease are enough to chill you to the bone.
Analyzing the Infamous Ending (Spoiler-Free)
The infamous ending of Speak No Evil (2022) is its most discussed element. Described by many as shocking and deeply disturbing, it is certainly unforgettable. The finale solidifies the film’s core message by pushing the boundaries of viewer expectation and refusing to offer easy answers.
While we won’t reveal any plot specifics, understand that the ending is designed to provoke. It forces you to confront uncomfortable truths and challenges assumptions about human nature. Its impact is profound, leaving a lasting impression that will have you replaying scenes in your mind. Consequently, the film’s power lingers long after viewing. This bold and brutal conclusion is what elevates Speak No Evil from a good thriller to a modern horror classic for many viewers.
Is Speak No Evil 2022 worth watching?
Why You Should Watch It
Wondering if Speak No Evil (2022) is worth your time? For fans of psychological thrillers, the answer is a resounding yes. Rather than relying on typical jump scares, this unique Danish film meticulously crafts an atmosphere of relentless dread. The tension builds slowly, driven by a masterclass in uncomfortable social commentary that explores the chilling consequences of politeness and societal expectations.
Those who appreciate slow-burn horror will find much to love, particularly in the incredibly nuanced performances. Christian Tafdrup and Morten Burian deliver an unsettling realism that helped Speak No Evil 2022 earn significant critical acclaim, including an 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes [1]. If you seek a movie that challenges and disturbs in equal measure, look no further.
- It’s a brilliant example of psychological horror.
- The film expertly builds suffocating tension.
- It offers insightful, albeit dark, social commentary.
- Performances are unsettling and incredibly real.
- The ending is notoriously shocking and unforgettable.
- It avoids cheap jump scares, relying on pure dread.
Who Should Probably Skip It
However, Speak No Evil (2022) is certainly not for everyone. The film ventures into deeply disturbing territory with graphic violence and bleak themes, so viewers sensitive to such content should be cautious. Its deliberate slow-burn pacing may also frustrate those expecting fast-paced action, as the narrative is designed to significantly challenge comfort zones by forcing audiences to confront unsettling human behavior.
With almost no humor or levity, the film’s tone is relentlessly oppressive, making it a poor choice for anyone seeking uplifting entertainment. Its ending is notoriously impactful but also profoundly disturbing, often leaving viewers feeling unsettled or even angry. If you dislike movies that push boundaries with extreme, bleak narratives, it’s best to skip this one. Its power is derived entirely from its ability to disturb.
- The movie is intensely disturbing and bleak.
- It features scenes of graphic violence.
- Its slow-burn pacing might not appeal to all.
- It offers very little in the way of conventional thrills.
- If you dislike extreme discomfort, avoid it.
- The ending is notoriously upsetting and difficult to watch.
What’s the difference between Speak No Evil 2022 and 2024?
The Original Danish Film (2022)
Released in 2022, the original Speak No Evil is a Danish psychological horror film directed by Christian Tafdrup. Known in its native Denmark as Gæsterne (The Guests), the movie quickly gained critical acclaim [1]. The film captivated audiences by exploring the dark side of social politeness and building an atmosphere of intense psychological dread. Its notoriously brutal ending left a lasting impact on the horror genre, setting a high benchmark for the remake to follow.
The American Remake (2024)
An American remake of Speak No Evil is scheduled for 2024, directed by James Watkins and starring James McAvoy and Mackenzie Davis [2]. Aimed at a broader English-speaking audience, this new adaptation is expected to feature some differences from the original. Beyond the language change, cultural nuances will likely be adapted for local tastes. Consequently, fans are eager to see how faithful the film will be, wondering if it can successfully replicate the chilling tone and shocking impact of the original’s ending.
Where Can You Watch Speak No Evil (2022)?
Current Streaming Platforms
The Danish psychological thriller, Speak No Evil (2022), is a truly chilling experience, but finding where to stream it can be a puzzle. Availability often varies by region and changes over time.
Instead of being included with a streaming subscription, the film is typically available for digital rental or purchase. This makes it widely accessible on demand.
You can usually find it on these popular platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Often available to rent or buy.
- Apple TV (iTunes): A common place for digital purchases and rentals.
- Google Play/YouTube: Offers the film for digital rental or purchase.
- Vudu: A popular platform for digital movies in the US.
Since streaming rights change, we recommend checking a reliable aggregator like JustWatch for the most up-to-date regional information [source: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/speak-no-evil].
Is it available on Netflix?
A common question is whether Speak No Evil (2022) is on Netflix. In most regions, the original Danish film is not part of the standard Netflix subscription library.
Although Netflix has a vast international library, this particular horror film is typically absent from its catalog. Streaming rights do shift frequently, but as of our last check, you will need to look elsewhere to watch this unsettling story.
Finding the Blu-Ray Version
For cinephiles who prefer physical media, the Blu-Ray of Speak No Evil (2022) is an excellent choice. A physical copy guarantees permanent ownership and the best possible audio and video quality, which is perfect for repeat viewings of such a tense film.
You can typically purchase the Blu-Ray from major retailers, including:
- Amazon: A primary online source for new and catalog titles.
- Best Buy: Carries a wide selection of films on disc.
- Barnes & Noble: Offers a media section with a variety of movies.
- Independent movie stores: A great way to support local businesses.
Check with online stores or your local electronics and media retailers for current stock. When searching, be sure to specify the 2022 original film to avoid confusion with any remakes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Speak No Evil (2022)
Who is in the cast of Speak No Evil (2022)?
The original Speak No Evil (2022) features a talented ensemble cast whose intense and memorable performances bring the chilling story to life.
The main cast includes:
- Morten Burian as Bjørn, the Danish father navigating an increasingly uncomfortable situation.
- Sidsel Siem Koch as Louise, the Danish mother struggling with her instincts.
- Liva Forsberg as Agnes, the quiet and observant Danish daughter.
- Fedja van Huêt as Patrick, the charismatic but unsettling Dutch host.
- Karina Smulders as Karin, the initially friendly Dutch mother.
- Marius Damslev as Abel, the enigmatic Dutch son.
Together, this cast creates a dynamic that is both inviting and deeply disturbing.
What language is the original Speak No Evil in?
As a European co-production, the original Speak No Evil (2022) features two primary languages that reflect the nationalities of the families in the story.
The main languages spoken are:
- Danish, spoken by Bjørn, Louise, and Agnes.
- Dutch, spoken by Patrick, Karin, and Abel.
The characters also frequently use English as a common language to communicate, a choice that highlights the cultural divide between the two families.
What is the IMDb rating for Speak No Evil (2022)?
Garnering significant attention from critics and audiences, Speak No Evil (2022) holds a respectable rating due to its resonant blend of psychological horror and social commentary.
The film currently has an IMDb rating of 6.7/10, based on a substantial number of user reviews [3]. This score reflects the film’s impact and its ability to provoke thought and discussion among viewers.
