Trailer Talk: 'The Woman in Black' – Radcliffe Takes Post-'Potter' Plunge

Audiences have no idea whether Daniel Radcliffe will forever be known as Harry Potter, or if the British actor’s career has only just begun.

Either way, his first major post-“Potter” screen assignment looks like a step in the right direction. “The Woman in Black,” hitting theaters Feb. 3, 2012, casts Radcliffe as a lawyer who runs into one very persistent ghost.

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Radcliffe already proved he could stretch with his Broadway run in “Equus” as well as a more recent turn in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

He doffed his clothes in the former, flashing the kind of abs that could find him a gig in a “Twilight” sequel. But just like that franchise’s star players, a lengthy film career is hardly guaranteed for Radcliffe. That’s why his first few films in the wake of the outstanding “Potter” finale are so crucial.

“Black’s” first trailer was out and out creepy, and the second snippet above is just as satisfying if a bit recycled from prior haunted house affairs. As for Radcliffe, he’s clearly benefiting from those sculpted sideburns and period garb that chases away thoughts of the boy wizard.

Best of all, “Black” director James Watkins is a real talent, having written a credible sequel to the great horror film “The Descent” and directing one of the more chilling horror sleepers in recent years, the 2008 shocker “Eden Lake.”

Young Radcliffe appears to be in very capable hands.