The Silence

Based on a book by Tim Lebbon, The Silence follows Stanley Tucci’s Hugh as he and his family are forced to go on the run after vicious cave-dwelling creatures are accidentally unleashed on the planet. Filmmaker John R. Leonetti delivers a blisteringly-paced opening stretch that effectively establishes the cataclysmic scenario but also rushes through the development of the various characters, and it’s clear, as a result, that The Silence doesn’t entirely come into its own until the comparatively deliberate midsection rolls around – with the progressively compelling atmosphere perpetuated by a sporadic inclusion of far-more-intense-than-expected sequences (including a fantastic interlude detailing the central characters’ initial encounter with the aforementioned creatures). There’s little doubt, however, that Leonetti occasionally goes just a little too far in terms of The Silence‘s less-than-propulsive second act, as the picture does boast a handful of overtly uneventful stretches that highlight the budget’s obvious limitations – which ensures, in turn, that there are a few pronounced lulls sprinkled throughout the 90 minute running time. The satisfying climax ultimately confirms The Silence‘s place as a strong adaptation (albeit one that’s often more erratic than the viewer might’ve preferred), with the performances, Tucci’s especially, generally elevating the proceedings above its straight-to-streaming brethren.

*** out of ****