Barbarian - A Movie Review

Don’t go inside that house.

Showing up to theaters in 2022, Barbarian centers around a young woman arriving at her Airbnb house, only to realize that it is occupied. Reluctantly agreeing to stay in the house with Craig, they make a shocking discovery.

Like everybody should, I walked into Barbarian totally blind. I had the best time watching this film. Barbarian is a terrifying film. And yet it is so enjoyable. The film takes so many unexpected twists and turns that you have no idea what to expect next.

Georgina Campbell and Bill Skarsgard are great together in Barbarian. They share remarkable chemistry. In an awkward situation, Tess and Craig agree to share the Airbnb house, not without light arguments and unfolding possible dangerous scenarios involving gender norms. The film does a great job of building up their chemistry. That was my favorite part.

Tess’s intuition and fight skills are a takeaway. Campbell did a wonderful job in her role. Still, I didn’t agree with some of her decisions. Would you actually keep walking toward the danger?

This film was the first time I’ve seen Bill Skarsgard out of his Pennywise makeup. Charming, nervous, and just plain awkward, I really loved the way he played this role. Albeit, I was on my toes, watching his every action, not sure if I could trust him. Gender roles play a significant theme in Barbarian.

There’s really not much I can say about the other roles in Barbarian without spoiling anything. Justin Long is in the film. Based on his character arc and personality, audiences will either love him for the comedic moments this scary film needs or you’ll hate him for his crude personality.

Zach Cregger masters ambiguity in Barbarian. He only conducted the bits that he wanted audiences to see. For the subject matter, a lot of scenes are discreet which is a good thing. It’s not what the film is about. Be warned that themes like sexual abuse are present. The indefinite story behind one character will likely trigger viewers.

Right from the start, you’re so on edge about what is going to happen in this film. I was studying every object in the house, small movements, and body language. Editing deserves its own recognition. I was not expecting the comedy.

When the first act ends, it cuts right to the next act, a completely different location, and tone. The film came to an abrupt finish in the third act. It felt rushed, leaving unanswered questions.

Be warned, this is one dark film. The screen is totally pitch black. Barbarian is a terrifying film. I jumped at one insane jump scare. My mouth hung open for a good chunk of time. Without spoiling, the makeup effects are fantastic. It’s all practical, which I like. I have not heard anybody talk about the makeup which I hope gets the recognition that it deserves.

Barbarian is horror at its best. The trailer deserves a round of applause for not spoiling anything. That’s how you make a trailer. I was pleasantly surprised by the film.

My friend and I were discussing the film for a good chunk of time after we left the theater. Barbarian was a great time. If only we had a bigger audience to see the film with because I know that it would have been exciting to see everyone's reactions to the terror.

See Barbarian in theaters while it is still out. It’s a thrilling experience. Hear me out, do not look up anything about this movie, and have the best time!