The Woman in Black: A Review

The Woman in Black
PG-13 for Thematic Material and Violent Disturbing Images

I went to see this movie several days ago, and, having watched the trailer, was expecting a horror/suspense/thriller film. I was not disappointed.

Struggling for years with his beloved wife's death, Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe) needs to move on, and prove to his law firm that he can be a dependable employee. The firm gives him the job of finding the last will and testament of a deceased woman, Alice Drablow. Arthur knows that this is his last chance, his last chance to pull his life to together and provide for his son. Unfortunately, it is not that simple...

Throughout the whole the film, Arthur strongly holds to the premise of an after-life, especially since he hopes to see his wife again. But, from the moment Arthur steps into Alice Drablow's home (which is capsuled in the foreboding Eel Marsh),  the supernatural begins to unease him. Starting at a seemingly slow pace, the jump scenes accelerate in frequency and intensity, until one is literally  trapped in that horrible house.

A mature Radcliffe carries the film

The fearful (but curious) expressions of Daniel Radcliffe perfectly mask the quiet sorrow and desperation of Arthur Kipps. Although his part is drastically different from his previous roles (er, Harry Potter), he adjusts admirably. The film possesses almost no dialogue, making the viewer rely upon the talents of Radcliffe, and the spare, richly textured dialogue driven by Radcliffe (again!).

There are four features of this film I was thoroughly impressed by, besides Radcliffe's acting:

1. James Watkins' (the director) impeccable use of the Gothic haunted house, while effectively evading cheesiness.
2. If you've watched the trailer, you know that wind-up chiming toys are generously employed in "The Woman in Black". I was thoroughly amazed at how a whimsical and innocent toy can become cringingly frightening.
3. The director sprinkles macabre aspects through the film, which I found intriguing.
4. A perfect ending. I applaud the thinking that went into this film.

I tend to be critical about the films I watch, since, in today's world, real acting can soon be replaced with special effects or glazed over by directors in search of something racy and "exciting". This film however, is worth seeing...especially if you want a scare.