STOP reading reviews and just go see this in a PACKED theater. It's an exhilarating theatrical experience filled with tension, laughter, and scares. I legitimately had no idea where this story was headed at any point. Zach Cregger's script intentionally subverts expectations of certain horror tropes to create some wild narrative twists and turns. I loved Skarsgård, Campbell, and Long as the leads, but even the casting sometimes feels intended to throw off audiences' expectations. In addition to Cregger's writing, his direction is impressive as well. The camera work and lighting are exceptional during specific sequences that take place in dark confined spaces. I won't divulge anything else because so much of what makes “Barbarian” such a thrilling experience is not knowing what to expect. It is my favorite theater experience of the year to date, and I can't recommend this enough for horror fans that delight in the unexpected.

— 4.5 / 5 ⭐