Pitchforks: 3.5/5
Starring: Daniel Radcliffe
It is early 19th century with eerie, cymbal-playing monkey toys and glass-eyed Victorian dolls. A rocking chair is in an abandoned nursery room that emits strange and unusual noises. These details set the scene for an otherworldly and cringing experience in “The Woman in Black.”
Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe), a grief-stricken lawyer mourning the death of his wife, is sent to the backwoods of a small English town. Newcomers are taken to watchful eyes. Between the rude hotel service and scowls from passersby, Arthur is entering unwelcome territory. Arthur is at risk of losing his job and must sort through the legal affairs of a recently deceased townswoman.
Upon arrival, Kipps finds himself struggling to land a decent night stay in any of the nearby hotels. Arthur is soon befriended by one of the locals who lets him in on a town secret: Eel Marsh House.
The mysterious lodging contains the spirit of an evil ghost who, once is noticed by anyone in sight, suffers the repercussions of her wrath. There is an immediate sense of urgency and foreshadowing as the movie steadily introduces the townspeople, their children and the local legend.
As the movie progresses, Kipps decides to work through the night in the forbidden Eel Marsh House where he is confronted by “The Woman in Black.”
Director James Watkins skillfully organizes the scenes of the movie to create a sense of impending doom for the audience. Though the introduction primarily sets a spine-shivering tone, there are brief spouts of comedic relief when Kipps is introduced to new characters throughout the movie.
In his first feature film since the end of the Harry Potter series, Radcliffe handles this mature role phenomenally. The actor fulfills his role superbly in his portrayal of a worried townsman who endures acts of spiritualism.
Each taunting Arthur endures is such an unexpected surprise, it is as if the audience can place themselves in Kipps’ shoes because of the suspense Watkins creates for the viewers. Rather than the usual happily-ever-after ending, Watkins adds a most surprising and unexpected twist for the audience, leaving viewers in a constant sort of awe.
“The Woman in Black” is comparable to 2011's “Insidious” with its energizing fright and unlikely intrigue. Watkins gives a refreshing spin on horror movies.
Reach the reporter at cstarboa@asu.edu
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