Behind Speak No Evil’s Shocking Ending with McAvoy

James Watkins’ Speak No Evil reimagines Christian Tafdrup’s 2022 Danish original by presenting characters who handle their predicaments in starkly different ways. Both films center on two families who meet on vacation and later visit each other’s homes, leading to increasingly uncomfortable and disturbing situations.

In the 2024 version, Scoot McNairy and Mackenzie Davis play city-dwelling parents who, unlike their more passive Danish counterparts, actively resist the unsettling behavior of their hosts, portrayed by James McAvoy and Aisling Franciosi. Watkins explores themes of social constraint and the difficulty of addressing bad behavior, suggesting that well-intentioned people can end up in troubling situations due to self-censorship.

A major difference between the films is their endings. The original film features a passive and grim conclusion where the visiting couple meekly accepts their fate. In contrast, McNairy and Davis’s characters in the American version fight back when McAvoy’s character reveals his sinister side. Watkins wanted to show how people might respond to violence, especially given the cultural and personal differences in reaction.

McNairy notes that while his character's response may be influenced by his Texas background, reactions to trauma can vary widely. He appreciates the new film’s ending for allowing the characters to put up a fight, providing a more satisfying resolution. Davis also finds value in the updated ending, which offers a sense of catharsis after the movie’s intense build-up.

Beyond these narrative shifts, Watkins' adaptation is notable for its cultural context, moving the story from Denmark to the U.K. This change not only impacts the characters' reactions but also enhances the film's exploration of societal norms and personal boundaries. By setting the film in a different cultural backdrop, Watkins effectively underscores how different environments shape our responses to fear and aggression.

Overall, Speak No Evil stands out for its fresh take on the original’s themes, providing a thought-provoking look at human behavior under duress. As audiences experience the tension and drama of the 2024 version, they are invited to reflect on how societal expectations and personal values influence our actions in extreme situations. The film’s unique approach and compelling performances make it a noteworthy entry in the psychological thriller genre.