If you want to be scared in a way that you're hiding behind your coat, watch Smile or Barbarian. I would say there's only one or two scary moments in The Harbinger, but that's not what they're going for. This movie is really in its own category. It's different. If different is what you want, it's worth it but don't expect the formula you see in Smile, for example. I think what really shows the greatness of The Harbinger is... if I look at a movie like Smile, which is scary, after it's over I can say, "It's like It Follows and the Ring." Not that original. But good. The entire purpose of those movies is one thing - get people to hide under the blanket with jump scares or the anticipation of them. And I LOVE those movies. But there's room for both if you're in a different mood and know what you're going in to. I can't really compare The Harbinger to anything because it is so different. I haven't seen a movie like it. I don't want to give anything away but you have different mythologies, relics, the devil, a native seer, a sort of possessed girl (This is not a "possession" movie, but I won't say why), all these unexpected twists, it's funny in parts, heartfelt in others, and there's always sort of an overly ominous, creepy vibe throughout. And all of the acting is great, particularly when you look back after knowing the twists. Great watch if your only goal is not wanting to be scared or see gore, which this movie doesn't have. I believe it's PG-13, which would explain the lack of violence and gore. If you want to watch an interesting supernatural mystery to see what happens next, it's worth it. I will watch again.
Review of The Harbinger
