James McAvoy is stepping into the spotlight in his latest film, “Speak No Evil,” where he showcases a surprising talent: singing. The Scottish actor, known for his diverse roles, takes on a darker character in this psychological thriller, which hits theaters on September 13.
In a recent preview screening at San Diego Comic-Con, McAvoy revealed a memorable moment from the film where he sings Belinda Carlisle’s iconic hit, “Heaven Is a Place on Earth.” With a self-deprecating sense of humor, he remarked, “I got to sing some Belinda Carlisle, which is really a high point when you hear how bad my voice is.” His light-hearted admission drew laughter from the audience, as he continued, “You’ll be like, ‘Wow, they let him do that on camera.’ Yeah, that was probably the high point for me.”
In “Speak No Evil,” McAvoy plays Paddy, a seemingly charming husband and father whose dark secrets begin to unravel when an American couple, portrayed by Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy, visit their idyllic Italian country home. The film takes a sinister turn as Paddy’s true nature is revealed, leading to a tense and unsettling atmosphere. His wife, played by Aisling Franciosi, and their mute son, Ant (Dan Hough), add layers to the story, creating a complex family dynamic that keeps viewers on edge.
Directed by James Watkins, “Speak No Evil” is a remake of the acclaimed 2022 Danish film of the same name. McAvoy intentionally avoided watching the original until after filming was completed, believing it would allow him to create a more authentic performance. He explained, “It’s really just about creating something that came naturally from your response to the material rather than, ‘Hey, that was a great movie.’ Luckily I hadn’t seen it. Otherwise, I think it would have been more difficult [to film].”
Mackenzie Davis echoed McAvoy’s sentiments, expressing confidence in their reinterpretation of the story. She stated, “When you do a version of Shakespeare, if you do a new version of King Lear or Macbeth, you never treat it as a remake. It’s like your own spin on it.” Davis emphasized that the film’s fresh take, with different cultural backgrounds and anxieties, makes it a unique experience for audiences.
The film’s unsettling premise is further enhanced by McAvoy’s performance, which showcases his ability to delve into darker roles. As Paddy, he embodies a character whose charm masks a more sinister reality, creating a tension that permeates the film. The juxtaposition of his character’s outward friendliness with his hidden malevolence adds depth to the narrative, making it a compelling watch.
“Speak No Evil” is not just a horror film; it explores themes of trust, deception, and the fragility of human relationships. The American couple’s initial excitement about their vacation quickly turns into a nightmare as they realize that their hosts are not what they seem. This shift in tone is expertly crafted by Watkins, who builds suspense throughout the film, keeping viewers guessing about Paddy’s true intentions.
As the film approaches its release date, McAvoy’s excitement is palpable. He has been actively promoting the film, sharing insights into his character and the creative process behind the project. His enthusiasm for the role is evident, and he has hinted at the possibility of reprising his iconic character, Charles Xavier, in future Marvel projects. “I think you’ll definitely see Charles making an appearance [in the Marvel Cinematic Universe],” he teased, leaving fans eager for more.
In addition to “Speak No Evil,” McAvoy has several other projects lined up. He is set to star in the thriller “Turn Up The Sun,” which follows two couples who unknowingly book the same country mansion for a weekend getaway, only to discover that their plans are not as they seem. He is also involved in an action-thriller titled “Control,” where he plays a doctor who wakes up to find a mysterious device implanted in his brain.
Moreover, McAvoy is taking on a new challenge by stepping behind the camera for the first time. He is directing a currently untitled film that tells the true story of Gavin Bain and Billy Boyd, two friends from Scotland who deceived the music industry into believing they were an established Californian rap duo. This venture marks an exciting new chapter in McAvoy’s career, showcasing his versatility as both an actor and a filmmaker.
As “Speak No Evil” prepares for its release, anticipation continues to build. The film promises to deliver a gripping narrative, anchored by McAvoy’s compelling performance and the haunting melody of Belinda Carlisle’s song. With its blend of psychological tension and unexpected moments, “Speak No Evil” is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
In conclusion, James McAvoy’s foray into singing in “Speak No Evil” adds an intriguing layer to his character and the film as a whole. His ability to balance humor with the darker elements of the story showcases his range as an actor. As fans eagerly await the film’s release, McAvoy’s unique performance and the film’s chilling narrative are sure to captivate audiences.
Source: PEOPLE, Universal Studios
