Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe) is a young solicitor working in Edwardian England. Recently widowed and raising a young son he is asked to handle a deceased estate, Eel Marsh House, in a small village. Little does he know of the terror awaiting as he hears tales of a mysterious woman in black. Wrecking a curse upon all those who see her, her presence changes Arthur’s life forever as he battles against her evil supernatural trickery.
‘The Woman in Black’ is very much an ‘old dark house’ spook-fest. Unlike most recent horrors it doesn’t totally rely on CGI in creating scares with moody tension paramount. What is unseen is usually far scarier which the screenplay deftly realises. It also keeps events simple enabling movie-goers to be drawn into the story with ease. The tale effectively interweaves the superstitious natures of the villagers and Kipp’s fragile emotional state into the narrative.
The desolate English country-side and cinematography are the films true stars. Capturing wide expanses highlighting the isolation everyone feels. Radcliffe equips himself admirably in his first post-Harry Potter leading role and as the story relies heavily on his talents he is more than rises to the challenge. There are some surprises amongst the expected creaky floors and sudden shocks as the film-makers know audiences love being scared.
Hopefully ‘The Woman in Black’ signals a resurgence in Hammer studios as its absence has been far too long. A good example of projecting vast atmospherics with minimal outlay and a fine addition to Hammer’s spooky cinematic catalogue.
Movie Review Rating 7 / 10
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.
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