Historically, the horror genre, with all its approaches and varieties, has found it challenging to discover something truly new. Unexpectedly, “Barbarian” is a rare example that accomplishes this almost perfectly. Directed by debutant filmmaker Zach Kregger and starring Giorgina Campbell, Bill Skarsgård, and Justin Long, this $4.5 million budget film was released on the HBO MAX platform this week, following its theatrical release last month in its home country.
Tess (Campbell) rents a house in suburban Detroit for a job interview. However, the house has been mistakenly rented by a man named Keith (Skarsgård) due to a technical error in the booking. Despite Tess’s initial objections, Keith offers to stay overnight. The next day, Tess accidentally discovers a secret room in the basement, revealing evidence of a past crime. Little did she know that she would encounter something even more terrifying there.
OMG! In terms of the horror genre, “Barbarian” is one of the best things I’ve seen in the last few decades. The idea, concept, and script are entirely new, reminiscent of the achievements of sci-fi horror films like “The Cabin in the Woods” (2012) and “10 Cloverfield Lane” (2016). With its brilliant script, I believe “Barbarian” surpasses these two films with plot lines that are impossible to anticipate. From the beginning to the climax, the plot is so intense that it provokes curiosity and tension in a balanced way. The story is also uniquely packaged, using four different characters, one of which is a flashback. We can briefly sense the style and taste of “Tarantino.”
From the opening segment, the plot seems to be heading into the familiar horror territory we often encounter: mysterious, alienated figures and houses, a noirish basement, and all the typical gimmicks. Regardless of the guesses one might make, rest assured, they are likely to be wrong. In a different “universe,” we find a girl being held captive by a psychopathic man, tortured to death. Moreover, the man’s cast has a history of playing the monster in “It.” The filmmaker brilliantly changes the course of the plot without appearing forced. Uniquely, the filmmakers incorporate the issue of women’s harassment through a surprising character, providing social commentary about officials who perform poorly in the suburbs.
“Barbarian” is a fresh horror film with a unique approach to storytelling and the incorporation of social issues. Armed with young filmmakers full of talent, a brilliant script, a simple yet effective plot, limited settings, classy performances, and a modest budget, it is proven that the horror genre can still offer new perspectives and exploration. “Barbarian” is a rare and remarkable achievement that can inspire other filmmakers to further develop the film medium, especially within the horror genre. You won’t believe it until you see it yourself. This film is a must-see for horror fans.
Enjoy watching!
