A young woman discovers the rental home she booked is already occupied by a stranger. Against her better judgment, she decides to spend the night but soon discovers there's a lot more to fear than just an unexpected house guest.
Director: Zach Cregger
Cast: Georgina Campbell, Bill Skarsgård, Justin Long, Matthew Patrick Davis
Release Date: September 9, 2022
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Rated R for some strong violence and gore, disturbing material, language throughout and nudity.
Runtime: 1h 42m
Review:
Zach Cregger's Barbarian is a devilishly clever, brutal and darkly funny horror film that's sure to leave an impression by the time it ends. Cregger smartly structures his film using the audience’s preconceived notions to great effect as he plays a game of misdirection, using mood and atmosphere to great effect especially in the film's opening act. There is a point where the film takes an unexpected turn as it gleefully resets the board and audience’s expectations. Even as the film moves into stranger and admittedly more ridiculous territory its cast is game for everything the script and director throws at them. Georgina Campbell is a likable lead who uses common sense early on until the film needs her to lose some IQ points to move the plot along. Bill Skarsgård plays his character with a solid mix of understated charm and menace which works well for the film. Barbarian is the type of horror film that works on many levels due to its fastidious level of design and construction which makes it so effective.
B+
