“Slick Horror Thrills: Speak No Evil Review”

is tomfoolery. Even extroverts need an audience, right?

So, Paddy invites the couple to their rural home, an oasis where smartphones give way to tangible pleasures like locally-sourced meals. Who could resist? Well, they should, of course. There’s something off about this couple, from the way they parent their special-needs child to Paddy’s exuberance. Take it down a notch, willya?

What works best in “Speak No Evil” is how much Ben and Louise are willing to take before they snap. Ben wants to be an Alpha Male like Paddy, so he defensively backs him even when Louise cringes at his behavior. Score one for the Missus, only it’s … complicated. The couple is nursing some emotional bruises, making them less willing to challenge Paddy.

“Speak No Evil” tackles head-on the challenge of maintaining narrative momentum in its third act, and it succeeds with blunt force storytelling. Director James Watkins, who previously delivered a withering look at evil through 2008’s “Eden Lake,” crafts a nasty, satisfying finale that keeps viewers engaged.

James McAvoy, known for his versatility in films like “Split,” once again shines in “Speak No Evil.” His portrayal of Paddy is delightfully charismatic, making even his somewhat questionable actions endearing in a strange way. The dynamic between Paddy and his guests, who show remarkable tolerance despite the mounting tension, is both engaging and relatable.

Despite its flaws, “Speak No Evil” offers a compelling blend of awkward clashes and full-blown terror that keeps audiences hooked. This film is not meant for serious reflection but for a slow burn that leads to a satisfyingly terrifying conclusion. Viewers will undoubtedly ponder how far they would go in the face of escalating tension, making it a captivating watch.