Science Fiction World

The Woman in Black may have been an inspired choice for Daniel Radcliffe’s first post-Potter movie: judging by the chilling new UK trailer it looks as if the young actor may succeed in breaking away from the Potter type-cast in one fell swoop with this Gothic horror from Hammer. Of course, it is a trailer I'm basing that judgement on and as we well know the art of the trailer-maker can be a sly and deceptive one, so we'll have to wait until February 2012 to know for sure.

The Woman in Black is an adaptation of Susan Hill’s 1983 novel of the same name, which has already been adapted very successfully for the stage (in fact it’s been running in the West End since 1989). The screen adaptation has been handled by Jane Goldman (Kick-Ass, The Debt, Stardust) and the movie is directed by James Watkins (Eden Lake).

Described by many as genuinely scary (or at least downright creepy), the story follows young lawyer and father Arthur Kipps (Radcliffe) who is sent to the remote market town of Crythin Gifford to deal with the papers of a deceased client, Mrs Drablow. Kipps has increasingly terrifying experiences in Eel Marsh House as the house gives up its secrets concerning the Woman in Black who haunts it and torments the inhabitants of the village.

In an interview last year, director James Watkins was enthusiastic to be working with Radcliffe of whom he said, “it was quite uncanny how closely our thoughts on the story mirrored each other: I can't wait to get down to work with him to fashion a compelling character and a classy ghost story that tugs at the heart and chills to the bone." Radcliffe too was eager to be working on the project, "I am incredibly excited to be part of The Woman in Black. Jane Goldman's script is beautifully written, both tender and terrifying in equal measure. It is thrilling to be working with James Watkins. From his brilliant work on Eden Lake and also having met him and heard his vision for the film, I know he will make a fantastic film." Let's hope the enthusiasm has paid off.

Due in February 2012, The Woman in Black also stars Ciaran Hinds (forthcoming John Carter, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and, of course, Aberforth Dumbledore in Deathly Hallows), Janet McTeer, Roger Allam (Game of Thrones) and Sophie Stuckey.

Here’s a fairly new sneak peak from the movie:

And you can check out the movie's official site here.