Daniel Radcliffe has built a reputation for making bold, unexpected choices since hanging up his wand, but his willingness to take risks was evident even while he was still the most famous young wizard in the world. In the wake of the Harry Potter finale, while many of his peers were lining up for superhero gigs, Radcliffe deliberately steered clear of franchise fare. Instead, he threw himself into a project that felt like a love letter to a bygone era of horror—a decision that now pays off for a whole new audience as the film lands on Paramount+ this September.
The movie in question is The Woman in Black, a gothic haunted-house tale that marked Radcliffe's first leading role after the Potter saga concluded. Set in a remote, fog-shrouded English village, the story follows Arthur Kipps, a young solicitor played by Radcliffe, who is sent to settle the estate of a recently deceased recluse. The task leads him to Eel Marsh House, a crumbling manor with a tragic past and a spectral presence that refuses to rest. It's a classic setup, dripping with atmosphere and dread, and it's now available for streaming subscribers to enjoy.
Produced by Hammer Films—the legendary British studio synonymous with gothic horror since the 1950s—The Woman in Black was a deliberate throwback. Director James Watkins, who would later helm the acclaimed Speak No Evil remake and is now attached to DC's Clayface, crafted a film that leaned into old-school scares rather than modern gore. The result was a box-office success, grossing over $130 million worldwide against a modest $15 million budget, proving that audiences still craved traditional ghost stories even as the Conjuring franchise dominated the genre.
The film also boasted a stellar supporting cast, including Ciarán Hinds and Janet McTeer, both of whom bring gravitas to their roles. Critics were somewhat divided, with the film earning a 66% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The consensus noted that it's "traditional to a fault," favoring chills over shocks, though some viewers accustomed to more intense, high-stakes horror might find it understated. Still, for fans of atmospheric, slow-burn terror, it's a gem worth revisiting.
Following its release, The Woman in Black spawned a sequel, The Woman in Black: Angel of Death, which starred Jeremy Irvine and was directed by Tom Harper. But it's Radcliffe's original that remains the essential viewing experience—a film that showcases his range and his commitment to challenging material, even at the height of his fame.
Now, with the movie streaming on Paramount+, a new generation can discover this chilling chapter in Radcliffe's career. It's also a perfect companion piece for fans of the upcoming Harry Potter series, offering a darker, more mature take on the actor's talents. And if you're in the mood for more scares, check out our weekend streaming picks for other horror gems.
For those who appreciate the craft of classic horror, The Woman in Black is a must-watch. It's a reminder that sometimes the most effective scares come from what you don't see, and that Radcliffe's post-Potter journey has been anything but predictable. So dim the lights, settle in, and let the ghost of Eel Marsh House haunt your screen.
