Daniel Radcliffe Shines

Rating: 7/10 (7 February 2012)

This movie felt like a test. I had to use up so much of my energy to not make Harry Potter jokes throughout. I failed. I couldn't help but hear EXPECTO PATRONUM echo in my head every time the dementor-like woman in black appeared. The very last scene of the movie is so similar to a scene in the last Harry Potter movie that I couldn't help but laugh.
Despite the typecasting, Daniel Radcliffe did brilliant in his first big non-Harry Potter role. He also shows something that many of the Harry Potter actors have started to prove—they know which scripts to take. This movie would have been great with any actor. With Radcliffe in the lead, however, it gave a unique perspective on the story that made it much better than I expected.
For a horror-flick, the director has to be good. With James Watkins, this movie was destined to be great. I lost count of how many times I jumped with fright. At first, they were cheap shots. As the movie progressed, however, so did the creepiness. The anticipation builds so well during several parts in the movie that you can't help but jump. I hate to admit that, just seconds before a terrifying moment, I couldn't help but close my eyes.
The down-side of The Woman in Black is in the structure of the storyline. The setup and eventual conclusion of why the woman in black does what she doesdoesn't make sense. It works well for the effect of creepiness. But when you honestly look at it, it doesn't work. As the movie concludes, it only gets worse. The final scene leaves so much more to be desired.
If you want a scary movie, this is the one for you. This is the best horror I have seen I some time. You will jump. You will regulate your breath with excited anticipation. You will be pleasantly surprised at Radcliffe's abilities as an actor. You may not be satisfied at the end, but the journey is more than worth it.