Harriet
Focus Features | Release Date: November 1, 2019
7.1
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 169 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
109
Mixed:
28
Negative:
32
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
JAmiekennersonNov 5, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The negative reviews for this movie mainly come from people who have not actually seen the film and due to xenophobic attitudes to Cynthia Erivo due to her being British and of Nigerian descent. Despite what they are spewing online Cynthia has not expressed any hateful attitudes to African American people and she has cleared up any misunderstanding people have. However, this small number of xenophobic Americans have shown despicable behavior by setting out to ruin this movie's online ratings. The film is a great showcase of a great American hero and should be seen by every American citizen. The star Cynthia Erivo gives a moving and passionate lead performance and deserves every award available to her. Despite the importance and significance of this movie, these small-minded xenophobic people have now claimed that the black slave catcher character who attempts to kill Harriet leading for her former master to kill him is a 'white savior' theme and that the film attempts to make black men the villain. This is uneqiviquoly untrue and shows that these people will do and say whatever it takes to attempt to ruin this movie. In reality, the black slave catcher is one of many black male characters, the character of Harriet's father and William Still are positive portrayals of black men who take up much more of the film than the slave catcher which these people ignore. The idea of a white savior is also false as Harriet is not saved out of respect or goodness, but is saved for the slave masters own good. Overall the campaign to ruin this movie by certain black Americans displays why it is so difficult for black movies such as this to be made as for some reason certain individuals do not allow for them to be made and told. My final point is to ignore the hateful people attempting to destroy this movie and see it for yourself it is a great movie and has many positives.… Expand
39 of 39 users found this helpful390
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10
catiedanielleNov 3, 2019
Great movie phenomenal acting! Everyone clapped at the end of the movie! A must see movie!
15 of 16 users found this helpful151
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10
craigbryantNov 3, 2019
This is a Must See Movie! Disregard any negative reviews you read, they're written to sabotage and dissuade you from seeing the movie. If you want to know what it means to move in the Spirit, watch it.
15 of 16 users found this helpful151
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10
KatrinaENov 1, 2019
Harriet is one of the most inspirational movies I have ever seen. Cynthia Erivo’s performance is Oscar caliber, and the entire cast is superlative. A movie about one of history’s great heroes is long overdue and so timely with the strugglesHarriet is one of the most inspirational movies I have ever seen. Cynthia Erivo’s performance is Oscar caliber, and the entire cast is superlative. A movie about one of history’s great heroes is long overdue and so timely with the struggles for equality that still plague our nation. Brilliant, beautiful, stunning. Don’t miss it.… Expand
15 of 17 users found this helpful152
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10
delineoNov 2, 2019
This movie showcased Harriet's faith, courage and perseverance. She is a true American hero, and I'm so so so glad that there's *finally* a movie that's been made about her. Highly recommended.
15 of 17 users found this helpful152
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8
RatedRexNov 1, 2019
It might be time for Metacritic to discontinue its "User Score", because hateful people use it to try to undermine or sabotage movies that don't fit their political agenda. Most of the time the users with the "0" ratings have never even seenIt might be time for Metacritic to discontinue its "User Score", because hateful people use it to try to undermine or sabotage movies that don't fit their political agenda. Most of the time the users with the "0" ratings have never even seen the movie. Its a shame how hateful people have become. "Harriet" is a pretty good movie. The historical importance of the story, alone, makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the life of one of America's greatest treasures. The acting is outstanding. Cynthia Erivo, who plays Harriet Tubman, deserves recognition for her performance. "Harriet" does have a bit of a made-for-TV feel to it, but that doesn't take away from its cinematic experience. 8 out of 10.… Expand
18 of 23 users found this helpful185
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9
SarahWillaimsonNov 5, 2019
Most of the user reviews of this movie are from people who have not seen these films and are attempting to lower its score if you look at their profiles many only created accounts to leave negativity on this film. This is unfortunate as theMost of the user reviews of this movie are from people who have not seen these films and are attempting to lower its score if you look at their profiles many only created accounts to leave negativity on this film. This is unfortunate as the film itself is actually very well made with an outstanding lead performance by Cynthia Erivo… Expand
13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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10
AmyMArtNov 5, 2019
Ignore the bad reviews they are from people who are ignorant and haven't seen the film which is a beautiful piece of art about one the most important and courageous people in American history wonderfully portrayed by the amazing lead actressIgnore the bad reviews they are from people who are ignorant and haven't seen the film which is a beautiful piece of art about one the most important and courageous people in American history wonderfully portrayed by the amazing lead actress Cynthia Erivo. She deserves all the awards for this portrayal, one of the best performances of this century so far. An Oscar win wouldn't be sufficient reward for the work Cynthia did in this film.… Expand
11 of 11 users found this helpful110
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10
MikeaaaNov 5, 2019
An amazing movie about an amazing woman, it can and should be seen by everybody. Hopefully, this will be seen by many young people too as it is also extremely inspiring.
10 of 10 users found this helpful100
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10
SamPeNov 5, 2019
Don't believe most of these reviews, they are from a conspiracy to silence this film and are from people who have not even seen the film. This is a good film with an outstanding lead in Cynthia Erivo. This story needs to be told and it'sDon't believe most of these reviews, they are from a conspiracy to silence this film and are from people who have not even seen the film. This is a good film with an outstanding lead in Cynthia Erivo. This story needs to be told and it's about time Hollywood starts to tell these stories more often.… Expand
7 of 7 users found this helpful70
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7
KeithDowNov 6, 2019
Harriet Tubman has near-universal name recognition. Soon, she’ll even be replacing Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill. But the events of her life, which is why her name is so recognized and why she deserves to be featured on currency, are farHarriet Tubman has near-universal name recognition. Soon, she’ll even be replacing Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill. But the events of her life, which is why her name is so recognized and why she deserves to be featured on currency, are far less known. This makes seeing Kasi Lemmons’ ‘Harriet’ more valuable than just spending a couple of hours watching a movie. It’s also like spending time at an educational lecture, gaining a deeper understanding of our history, our country, and ourselves.

Cynthia Erivo gives a phenomenal performance as Harriet and the story itself is truly inspirational. Throughout the film, however, the dialogue often stands out like a sore thumb, dragging the film’s overall rating down. It either comes off as far too cliche, mundane, or basic compared to everything else in the movie, making it that much more (painfully) noticeable.

Overall, we still recommend seeing ‘Harriet’ for the reasons noted above, but just wish the pencil used to write it were a little sharper.… Expand
5 of 5 users found this helpful50
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10
CurtisClark5Nov 5, 2019
Outstanding performance from the lead actress Cynthia Erivo elevates this film into greatness, one of the most inspiring films I've seen in a long time.
4 of 4 users found this helpful40
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10
Cameron225869Nov 5, 2019
Amazing, outstanding, fantastic, there are not enough adjectives to explain how good this film is. Cynthia deserves the Oscar and ever another award out there for her performance in this.
4 of 4 users found this helpful40
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7
TVJerryNov 7, 2019
After Harriet Tubman (Cynthia Erivo) escaped from slavery, her dedication to freedom took her on a remarkable journey that saved hundreds of others. Erivo is in almost every scene, driving the story with earnest resolution. The rather prosaicAfter Harriet Tubman (Cynthia Erivo) escaped from slavery, her dedication to freedom took her on a remarkable journey that saved hundreds of others. Erivo is in almost every scene, driving the story with earnest resolution. The rather prosaic script and no especially inspired direction turn this into a somewhat staid history lesson. It lacks an urgent power that might have driven it into great drama. An inspiring story of strength and dedication, but not an inspiring movie.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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7
Brent_MarchantNov 7, 2019
While the storytelling approach is rather safe and formulaic, this heroic biopic nevertheless delivers an inspiring tale of a courageous soul who successfully helped liberate an oppressed people. Cynthia Erivo delivers a knock-out,While the storytelling approach is rather safe and formulaic, this heroic biopic nevertheless delivers an inspiring tale of a courageous soul who successfully helped liberate an oppressed people. Cynthia Erivo delivers a knock-out, award-worthy performance as the celebrated title character, backed by a fine ensemble cast of supporting players, all dressed up in a fine period piece production design. Admittedly the dialogue is a tad preachy at times, and the film's overdramatic soundtrack frequently overpowers the mood of many scenes. However, for those seeking uplifting viewing options, this tribute to Harriet Tubman is well worth the time.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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10
Madison5598Nov 6, 2019
A great film, Fantastic performances by the cast particularly Cynthia erivo.
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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10
JakedaholmesNov 6, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Her sister die
She freed 750 slaves
Nnndjdjdndnx
.dbdbdnsdghjjjhccfvhhsacmngv.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
QadoshNov 10, 2019
One of the best movies I have seen in a long time! No filthy language was used, not that it is ever needed. It was great to see how much Harriet trusted in the LORD and how He guided her and protected her. A beautiful film portrayed in theOne of the best movies I have seen in a long time! No filthy language was used, not that it is ever needed. It was great to see how much Harriet trusted in the LORD and how He guided her and protected her. A beautiful film portrayed in the midst of a very dark time in our history.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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3
JordanLaytonApr 28, 2020
The story I keep hearing around this movie is "great performance, bad movie. After watching it I have to say: okay performance, bad movie. With movies about historical figures, you know something is wrong when the text about the figure at theThe story I keep hearing around this movie is "great performance, bad movie. After watching it I have to say: okay performance, bad movie. With movies about historical figures, you know something is wrong when the text about the figure at the end of their film evokes more emotion than the entire rest of the runtime did. It's disappointing because there's clearly a great story to be told here but this is just a mediocre, paint by numbers script with chaotic pacing, choppy editing, and a completely inoffensive score.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
LubisNov 1, 2019
Loved this movie. I wish there were more movies like this being produced. Heroism. Bravery. Fearlessness. Sacrifice. Love. Compassion. Courage. Daring. Not a Superhero movie. A real live amazing woman who overcame impossible odds to do theLoved this movie. I wish there were more movies like this being produced. Heroism. Bravery. Fearlessness. Sacrifice. Love. Compassion. Courage. Daring. Not a Superhero movie. A real live amazing woman who overcame impossible odds to do the miraculous! Go see this movie! You will love it!… Expand
13 of 14 users found this helpful131
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10
annaebNov 2, 2019
An inspiring and powerful movie about a true American hero! A compelling performance by Cynthia Erivo and an overall incredible cast.
13 of 15 users found this helpful132
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10
WilliamLovesNov 5, 2019
The majority of the negative reviews here are lies, this is a great movie a fantastic lead. This is a movie everybody can enjoy.
6 of 7 users found this helpful61
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2
McgregorNov 10, 2019
Would be more at home in the fantasy section, a lot of wild deviation from the facts.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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3
Snickers19380Nov 4, 2019
Contrived fictional storyline that missed so much of what made this woman so amazing, Such a shame. Seems very little effort was made banking everything on the hopes of people paying to see a movie about an historical legend. The only oneContrived fictional storyline that missed so much of what made this woman so amazing, Such a shame. Seems very little effort was made banking everything on the hopes of people paying to see a movie about an historical legend. The only one benefiting from this movie is Hollywood.… Expand
6 of 17 users found this helpful611
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0
lps25Nov 1, 2019
This "movie" is complete TRASH and ahistorical. Shame on all who are involved. Shame on them.
6 of 24 users found this helpful618
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0
BennySegalNov 1, 2019
Horrible movie. The acting was terrible and it was made to make the white liberals and conservatives comfortable. White savior scenes all in the film. Typical Hollywood filth.
5 of 21 users found this helpful516
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6
tropicAcesNov 1, 2019
It’s an important movie, but it’s also a very safe one. It’s historically accurate, but not realistic. The whole thing just comes off like a TV movie, and Ervio is outshined in her own film but Odom and Hunter Hall.
2 of 13 users found this helpful211
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0
TforrestNov 3, 2019
Garbage...Not a true repensetation of what really happened... Totally unacceptable. Period
2 of 16 users found this helpful214
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0
kwiseNov 1, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't know where to begin to express my disgust with this movie about one of my personal heroes and pride of Black America.

In Harriet, Focus Features, the producers (Debra Morgan Chase, Daniela Taplin Lundberg), the director Kasi Lemmons, and writer Gregory Allen Howard have managed to turn the story and legacy of an unbelievably strong champion of freedom and warrior against white supremacy and completely de-fang, sterilize, and outright disrespect Harriet Tubman an the history Black Americans as a whole.

Going back almost a year, my expectations for this movie was already low out of the gate. This was mainly due to the controversial casting of Cynthia Erivo, someone who has a history of making very disparaging remarks about Black Americans. Many attempt to shrug these off as just “old tweets” but Cynthia again stepped in it in 2018 by co-signing several insensitive tweets toward Black Americans by her friend Luvvie Ajaye. Even as recently as August of this year Ms. Erivo again showed her contempt and disconnect from Black Americans with her tweets co-signing the misguided and thoughtless tweets from her co-star Janelle Monae regarding the voting habits of Black Americans. This incident showcased the character of these two “Harriet” stars, wherein Janelle Monae offered a sincere, introspective apology, Cynthia Erivo chose to play the victim for those that were offended by HER words.

I wish the casting of a problematic star were the least of this movie’s problems; but it isn’t. Harriet goes on to tell such a watered-down, “safe,” fictionalized accounting of Harriet Tubman’s life that they may have well just changed the name of the main character. It is a sickening revisionist take on history and the brutality of the institution of American Chattel Slavery. As we speak the historical consultant for the film Dr. Kate Clifford Larson (who, for the record, is white) is receiving tons of backlash regarding the antagonist “Bigger Long” who not only didn’t exist, but the notion of black bounty hunters is something that is completely ahistorical and irresponsible for a so-called historian to try and push to the masses. Speaking of history the Bigger Long character is also upsetting from a writing standpoint as the writers for this movie are surely well versed with Richard Wright’s groundbreaking novel “Native Son” and the book’s protagonist: Bigger Thomas. In the creation of the character Bigger Long, this movie managed to kill 2 birds with 1 stone. You managed to demonize the Black man while simultaneously besmirching the work of a legendary Black American author.

In the slave master that is hunting Harriet down, the writers of “Harriet” give us more of the “tortured-secretly-in-love-but-brutal” slave master that we’ve seen before in Steve McQueen’s “12 Years a Slave.” It is this slave master who ultimately kills the very “Black Bounty Hunter” Bigger Long just when he goes to kill Harriet. Many online have characterized this as making “Harriet” a “white savior” movie, which is a bit of a stretch, but technically Harriet’s life in the film was indeed saved by a white slave master, which no matter what the motivation of the character is a WTF writing choice and reeks of sanitizing and easing white movie-goers’ guilt or yucky feelings they may have. All in all “Harriet” is a slap in the face to any and all black people on this planet, in particular the descendants of those enslaved in American chattel slavery and survivors of Jim Crow. This movie should never have been made and it’s evident to anyone familiar with Black American History that its sole purpose is to further poison and corrupt the way Black Americans are seen and understood.… Expand
2 of 17 users found this helpful215
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1
AminahcmNov 3, 2019
How does a movie about an iconic black American hero who did so much to free her people from white supremacy/American slavery, invent a fictionalized black bounty hunter who turns out to be the villain of the story? What an insult toHow does a movie about an iconic black American hero who did so much to free her people from white supremacy/American slavery, invent a fictionalized black bounty hunter who turns out to be the villain of the story? What an insult to Foundational Black Americans.… Expand
2 of 17 users found this helpful215
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4
GreatMartinNov 1, 2019
I knew very little about Harriet Taubman and except for the ending credits I didn't learn more about her. I was caught up in the movie, and the performance of Cynthia Erivo as Harriet aka Misty and Moses, until her first time as a leaderI knew very little about Harriet Taubman and except for the ending credits I didn't learn more about her. I was caught up in the movie, and the performance of Cynthia Erivo as Harriet aka Misty and Moses, until her first time as a leader sneaking slaves from Baltimore to Philadelphia.

It has been said that Harriet had been beaten so badly as a child, including having a metal weight thrown at her head, that gave her a traumatic head wound that would make have her strange visions and revelations from God. Without getting into a discussion of religion her walking across, not on, a river took me out of the movie and the other visions and too many coincidences.

From the beginning, and through the movie, there is a repeated scene of 3 girls being taken away from their family and somehow until just now when I read wikipedia about Harriet Taubman I didn't know that they were her sisters.

"Harriet" in many ways is a by the book, Hollywood biography and skips many heavy issues regarding slavery, the Underground Railroad, how both black and white societies worked for and against her and what I was expecting to be a very emotional movie. We don't get to know what she is thinking or feeling before, during and/or after her 'visions'.

I am glad I went to see "Harriet" because it made me more interested into getting her true story, if it is known, and the performance by Cynthia Erivo plus some very strong performances from supporting performers.… Expand
2 of 20 users found this helpful218
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0
dlew84Nov 5, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. the movie twist the story of a legendary black heroine in the worst way possible. making the black man the cause of her problems instead of the slave master. even going as far as changing how she ended up with her seizures. she wasn't accidently hit with an iron weight. she was beating with a cast iron skillet till near death by her slave owner. Hollywood please stop everything you touch is turned into crap.look at the Mises movie if you don't believe me.… Expand
1 of 11 users found this helpful110
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0
luminaxsterNov 1, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This film's cinematographer was awful, with non existent photography. Harriet story is convoluted with unnecessary God's vision to the point I thought she was a mutant and not being brain injured by her slavers. It has empowering moments, but don't let that fool, she deserves better. The acting is amazing but the direction and script buried this film, and, pointing to the civil war enterprise as part of the story in the trailers is a disgrace, it is like 30s tops.… Expand
1 of 13 users found this helpful112
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0
agathareadsNov 4, 2019
Dangerous divisive propaganda demonize black men by portraying #ADOS as brutal slave catcher and white slave master as savior. Denigrating historical narrative to minimize the atrocities of slavery. Used Harriet Tubman's name to promote aDangerous divisive propaganda demonize black men by portraying #ADOS as brutal slave catcher and white slave master as savior. Denigrating historical narrative to minimize the atrocities of slavery. Used Harriet Tubman's name to promote a fictional movie that nobody would pay to see if it wasn't called, "Harriet". Black men were not slave catchers!! Travesty, a horrible representation of a revered black historical figure. Emphasize idea black men evil, problem, villain thereby sanctioning the shooting of black men. Character did not depict the fierce countenance of Harriet Tubman. Character came of fake.… Expand
2 of 29 users found this helpful227
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1
RockdownplusNov 5, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This film is historically inaccurate. It contains a fictional bounty hunter character who hunts Harriet and tries to kill her. The kicker is that the bounty hunter is a BLACK man. To add insult to injury a white slave owner has to rescue Harriet from the bounty hunter!!!!! What a mess… Expand
1 of 33 users found this helpful132
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3
ZZBEARNov 10, 2019
I prefer historical movies not to take to many liberty's to increase the drama like this movie did.
0 of 5 users found this helpful05
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1
MurrayT57Feb 5, 2020
Harriet Tubman deserved a lot better than this cringe-worthy, poorly acted, poorly directed mess. The lead didn't do anything to make herself believable, and her singing parts sounded so weird it helped deem the movie unwatchable. PeopleHarriet Tubman deserved a lot better than this cringe-worthy, poorly acted, poorly directed mess. The lead didn't do anything to make herself believable, and her singing parts sounded so weird it helped deem the movie unwatchable. People desperately want this movie to be meaningful because of the subject matter, but it's embarrassingly close to a Hallmark production.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
foxgroveNov 21, 2019
Dull and conservative film making that thinks it's saying something important. The lead performance is over rated and the running time goes on forever. Only some pretty cinematography manages to capture the eye. Please don't give this awardsDull and conservative film making that thinks it's saying something important. The lead performance is over rated and the running time goes on forever. Only some pretty cinematography manages to capture the eye. Please don't give this awards as it is not deserving and would smack of insincerity.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
RalfbergsDec 24, 2020
Good movie depicting important history that should not be forgotten and very important person regarding black people rights
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
qFeb 8, 2020
I rented the DVD of "Harriet." It is an excellent biopic about an American hero about whom most of us know relatively little. It should become a staple of middle and high school history classes. Artistically, the film was satisfying, with anI rented the DVD of "Harriet." It is an excellent biopic about an American hero about whom most of us know relatively little. It should become a staple of middle and high school history classes. Artistically, the film was satisfying, with an excellent screenplay and acting. I am surprised to read several harshly critical reviews from viewers, but they seem to have an underlying political bias.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
JLuis_001Jan 8, 2020
Its conventionalism could have killed it, but the performances, its subject figure and the confection achieve a commendable effort worthy of attention.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
CrimsoncriticNov 20, 2019
The problem with Harriet is that by being PG-13, it can’t get across its message against slavery as effectively as it could. Slavery needs no introduction; it’s slavery. So if you’re gonna make a movie about slavery, you need to go balls toThe problem with Harriet is that by being PG-13, it can’t get across its message against slavery as effectively as it could. Slavery needs no introduction; it’s slavery. So if you’re gonna make a movie about slavery, you need to go balls to the wall and truly capture the horror that slavery was. But because this movie refuses to do that, when it goes on these monologues of children slaughtered and ruthless treatment of slaves, the audience can’t relate because we didn’t see it. The movie just thinks we can easily visualize the tragedy of slavery in order to be invested in its message; and I mean, yeah, we can. But the movie should’ve shown us what slavery was instead of just telling us.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
MarkHReviewsDec 22, 2019
Most of all, “Harriet” is earnest. It doesn’t trade in metaphor. There are no deep explorations of human motivation. This is a film that’s quite content with a logical, linear, straightforward interpretation of historical events.

AlthoughMost of all, “Harriet” is earnest. It doesn’t trade in metaphor. There are no deep explorations of human motivation. This is a film that’s quite content with a logical, linear, straightforward interpretation of historical events.

Although there are some liberties taken along the way for dramatic effect, “Harriet” fairly faithfully chronicles the life of Harriet Tubman. Tubman was raised a slave in Dorchester County, Maryland. In 1849, she successfully fled on foot to freedom in Philadelphia, over one hundred miles away, traveling alone for most of her journey. However, she was not content with securing her own freedom. Over the ten-year period following her initial escape, she returned 19 times to Maryland as a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad (a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped escaping slaves make it to the North), eventually helping to free over 300 people, “without losing a passenger.”

Cynthia Erivo (“Widows,” “Bad Times at the El Royale”) is mesmerizing in the title role. She imbues the character with a powerful ferocity, convincingly portraying how a slender black woman 5’2” could tower over much more “powerful” figures throughout her life. As abolitionist William Still, Leslie Odom Jr. (best known as Aaron Burr in Broadway’s “Hamilton”) is once again in “the room where it happens.” Singer Janelle Monae (“Moonlight,” “Hidden Figures”) is effective as the sympathetic manager of a boarding house who helps former slaves adjust to their freedom.

A great strength of the film is its thoughtful depiction of the causes and consequences of slavery. We learn, for example, about the economic value of owning slaves. In many cases, the slaves themselves were white owners’ most valuable possessions. When several slaves escaped at once, their owners often were left destitute, having to absorb the economic loss of the slaves themselves while also losing the laborers critical to their agricultural operations.

Another fascinating story element was the Northern states’ efforts to appease the South during the period leading up to the Civil War. Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Act as part of the Compromise of 1850. This law allowed slave catchers to come to Northern states to reclaim their property and made the federal government responsible for the capture and return of slaves who had escaped the South. As a consequence, thousands of former slaves emigrated to Canada.

Most of all, “Harriet” powerfully portrays the consequences when white owners perceived their slaves as less than fully human. In several scenes, the casualness of the brutality inflicted was simultaneously upsetting and thought-provoking.

“Harriet” is as somber, sober and serious as the history and biography it depicts. It’s a tribute to Writer/Director Kasi Lemmons (“Eve’s Bayou,” “Black Nativity”) that the film is uplifting as well as educational.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
DerekReideJan 18, 2020
'Harriet' is an incredible interpretation of historical events throughout her times escaping slavery through to the second year into the Civil War. The cinematography was beautiful, the acting was stellar, especially Cynthia Erivo, who gives'Harriet' is an incredible interpretation of historical events throughout her times escaping slavery through to the second year into the Civil War. The cinematography was beautiful, the acting was stellar, especially Cynthia Erivo, who gives an Oscar-worthy performance as the lead character, Harriet Tubman. The story, though probably some fiction is involved, is inspiring and well crafted. Overall, this is a film that some history buffs may not enjoy for the possible fictitious areas, but nevertheless to mention that this was a very well-made, inspirational, beautiful movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
HpkingJan 4, 2020
Very enlightening, powerful movie! Most of the negative user ratings are from hate groups and foreign actors who try to sole discord. Compare to reputable Meta Critic reviews from industry leaders like Roger Ebert.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
zNeverSleepingJun 13, 2020
Oportunidade desperdiçada.

A obra perde uma oportunidade incrível de transpor a profundidade da Harriet, limitando-se a uma narrativa "sessão da tarde", onde nada parece ter consequência, os vilões são burros como uma porta, nenhumOportunidade desperdiçada.

A obra perde uma oportunidade incrível de transpor a profundidade da Harriet, limitando-se a uma narrativa "sessão da tarde", onde nada parece ter consequência, os vilões são burros como uma porta, nenhum personagem é devidamente desenvolvido, tampouco os diálogos.

Em diversos momentos, nos vemos sem explicações do que de fato houve na cena anterior. Esses furos anulam toda verossimilhança que venha a existir e o próprio filme sabe disso quando dá importância demais para a narrativa religiosa, e o pior: acredita nela com a personagem. Não há como cair no papo de que "Deus" mostrou o caminho para ela, principalmente por que o filme não é sobre isso.

O roteiro também se mostra preguiçoso no que se diz respeito aos personagens. Ninguém de fato parece vivo, nem mesmo a própria Harriet. Depois da cena onde a mesma finalmente é livre, deixei de sentir qualquer coisa pela mesma - o que é uma pena, pois sua historia real certamente é magnifica.

Há diversos Deus Ex Machina, o que deixa o senso de perigo inexistente. Os "vilões" são ridicularizados, mas da maneira errada. É como se quem os escreveu fosse burro mesmo. A ambientação, por outro lado, me agradou. A fotografia também é interessante e a trilha sonora marca sua presença, pena que sem proposito.… Expand
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4
Mauro_LanariJul 3, 2020
(Mauro Lanari)
Not knowing Harriet Tubman's story at all, I won't touch the thorny point of the veracity or not of this biopic. Additional considerations:
1) Is the protagonist a woman? Checked. 2) Is the female protagonist black? Checked 3)(Mauro Lanari)
Not knowing Harriet Tubman's story at all, I won't touch the thorny point of the veracity or not of this biopic. Additional considerations:
1) Is the protagonist a woman? Checked.
2) Is the female protagonist black? Checked
3) Does she help herself and others on her own instead of resorting to a "white savior"? Checked.
4) Is the style terribly televisiony even in the most compelling moments on paper? Checked.
5) Harriet was a mystic and decided by trusting the visions she received. God? Today one would prefer to talk about channeling, guiding spirit, guardian angel, etc. Always better than Malick's last repulsive film that already from the first shot shows the married couple immersed in an Edenic environment while their hands in the foreground flaunt the wedding rings. Anyway, Harriet is named the new "Moses": perhaps someone has not yet understood (for example Michael Walzer in "Exodus and Revolution", 1985) that according to the Bible Moses died in Sinai together with all the Hebrews who had escaped from Egypt with him, while only who was born in the desert crossed the Jordan River and entered the so-called "promised land". That is to say that the intersection between those who had lived the Egyptian experience and those who crossed "The River" is ∅ (= empty set). Yet still now such a "Pesach" is celebrated as an indispensable event in the historical process of salvation.… Expand
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6
DawdlingPoetOct 2, 2022
This film tells an interesting story and indeed its based on a true story I believe but I felt like it didn't really go into too many details about things, instead giving a brief overview of the titular characters life. This is a film thatThis film tells an interesting story and indeed its based on a true story I believe but I felt like it didn't really go into too many details about things, instead giving a brief overview of the titular characters life. This is a film that will likely make you want to look up the protagonist's story and learn more about them from a historical perspective. The cast do a relatively good job and the effects are ok but it didn't really stand out. Obviously it covers a pretty dark time in history and it makes for a somewhat thoughtful watch but I'm not sure I'd say its as powerful as '12 Years a Slave'. I did feel sorry for Harriet, it would be difficult not to and no doubt she wouldn't want that (you can only imagine how bad things were for non-white females) but overall I felt this film lacked something. Its a shame as it depicts such an interesting person. No, I wouldn't recommend this film overall.… Expand
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10
syaniNov 9, 2019
Such a great movie. My friend and I loved it so much. Inspirational. Historical. Just amazing in many ways we want to convince our school to take us on a field trip to see it I loved it. It is really worth the money and I suggest going it wasSuch a great movie. My friend and I loved it so much. Inspirational. Historical. Just amazing in many ways we want to convince our school to take us on a field trip to see it I loved it. It is really worth the money and I suggest going it was a great movie… Expand
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10
BottstarNov 10, 2019
Everyone in the world should see this movie! Will help you to understand today's state of affairs. Simply amazing!
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10
HselfNov 10, 2019
Love love this movie! Harriet displayed so much courage and belief in God which benefited so many people. A true hero.
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10
GabbryielleNov 11, 2019
This movie is a must-see!!! It is very thrilling and inspiring. I have watched it 3 times already. Cynthia Erivo did a fantastic job at portraying Harriet. You can really learn a whole lot from this movie in such a short amount of time. IThis movie is a must-see!!! It is very thrilling and inspiring. I have watched it 3 times already. Cynthia Erivo did a fantastic job at portraying Harriet. You can really learn a whole lot from this movie in such a short amount of time. I rate it 10/10.… Expand
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8
LaSaundraPowellNov 20, 2019
Phenomenal! This is an enlightening piece on the journey of Harriet. They took a piece of history that many of us should know and yet still enlightened us to a different side of Harriet, it personifies her for who she truly was. WhilePhenomenal! This is an enlightening piece on the journey of Harriet. They took a piece of history that many of us should know and yet still enlightened us to a different side of Harriet, it personifies her for who she truly was. While entertaining, this movie is powerful! This movie cultivates emotions in ways that as a person of color, you can’t help but feel powerful and proud. Phenomenal!… Expand
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4
KaidijekskdkNov 21, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Full of actions; only some parts no actions gud movie "Trade is cool"-E#+($, 2019… Expand
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10
KelSturgDec 25, 2019
This movie was great!!! It allowed me to learn so much more than what I knew to the point that I came home and read up more about this amazing woman!!! I am 54 years old and this was a story that Taught Me A Lot about sooo many historical things!!!
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8
August49Feb 12, 2020
Excellent historical film..................................................
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9
Stream2BigScreeJan 28, 2020
Harriet or: Why This American Hero Belongs on the $20 Bill

The Stream: A little paint-by-numbers historical biopic for such a towering figure in American history. The Big Screen: Cynthia Erivo embodying the strength, perseverance, andHarriet or: Why This American Hero Belongs on the $20 Bill

The Stream: A little paint-by-numbers historical biopic for such a towering figure in American history.

The Big Screen: Cynthia Erivo embodying the strength, perseverance, and fearlessness of a remarkable human being.

The Final Bill: Even though you know how Harriet’s story goes, this movie is suspenseful and deeply inspirational.

-Trip Fontaine

A five-foot tall, female runaway slave escapes the clutches of a jealous slaveowner, and she treks to freedom nearly 100 miles from where she had been enslaved with nothing except desperation, her wits, and faith propelling her on. Harriet Tubman is one of a handful of well-known African American Historical figures that are taught even outside of their designated month. In fact, she is such a towering figure that she was slated to be the new face of the $20 bill. So, why did it take until 2019 for this story to get the Hollywood treatment? I hope it was just because everyone involved along the way wanted to give the woman the respect she deserves. I don’t know if what Harriet is is all that it should have been, but it is nevertheless a respectable effort that grabs your heart and doesn’t let it go.

Harriet, as directed by Kasi Lemmons and starring Cynthia Erivo as the erstwhile, Araminta Ross, takes no time setting the stage to get Araminta on her journey. The farm owned by the Brodess family is no place to raise a family. She must live free of die. Lemmons ratchets up the tension and builds the suspense of every moment of Araminta’s trek. Although the escape of Araminta, soon-to-be Harriet Tubman, is well-known, the tension of every step away from enslavement and the fear of capture from slave trackers is relentless. Her determination is equally unrelenting.

Erivo plays Harriet as impassioned as she must have been, not only for her own freedom but for that of her family. This woman is fierce, cunning, determined and every other adjective for heroic. Erivo embodies each aspect with such a spirit that captures the audience. She is soulful and every expression is heartrending. There are others in the ensemble like Leslie Odom, Jr. and Janelle Monae, who play people that help Harriet in her freedom and introduce her to the Underground Railroad; and, there are also villains like the slaveowners played by Jennifer Nettles and Joe Alwyn, who become a bit cartoonish. They all really pale in comparison to the powerful presence of Erivo with some divine inspiration of Harriet herself.

There are a few quibbles with the film. As biopics go, the truth of the history is what makes Harriet worthy. There are not any tricks or gimmicks that make the film itself anymore of a typical historical biographical film. Also, Lemmons tries to explain why Harriet takes the risks she does and how she is successful in eluding capture, but it doesn’t always work. Lastly, there are two instances where there is a comedic shift that feels out of place.

Ultimately, Harriet is a must-see movie. The story of Harriet Tubman is remarkable. To see this dramatization reminds one of the struggle that some Americans had to go through just to get what should have been inherent in their simple existence. Tubman is an American hero, who deserves all of this recognition and more. Go to the theater early and often, and probably bring a tissue or two, just in case.

Note: Stay for the credits to hear Harriet‘s anthem, “Stand Up,” sung incredibly by the brilliant, Cynthia Erivo. If you are not crying by the end of the first chorus, rush to the hospital to make sure your heart is not a cold, cold block of ice.… Expand
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10
Hibz_7Jul 24, 2020
Inspiring and enlightening biopic. Strong acting and uplifting storyline giving insight to the struggles of slavery and slave runners, as well as the difficult journey to freedom that they had to embark, which you don't see as much in filmsInspiring and enlightening biopic. Strong acting and uplifting storyline giving insight to the struggles of slavery and slave runners, as well as the difficult journey to freedom that they had to embark, which you don't see as much in films about slavery.… Expand
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10
shouqvlJul 27, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. really great film i loved it so much it makes ne cry too but beautifully end… Expand
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7
Pan_KrytykNov 22, 2021
Film mi się podobał, a historia z nim wiążąca się jest poruszająca. Warto chwilę czasu poświęcić i poczytać.
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6
TedisFeb 4, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Konu çok iyi ama güzel işlenmiş bir film mi bence hayır, oyuncular gayet iyi ama duygusal bağlamda eksiklikler var neden bilemedim senaryo da kopukluklar mı var yoksa oyuncularda mı eksiklik var bilmiyorum ama drama hiç hissedilmiyor hatta gurur verici sahneler de bile yürekte ki kabarmayı hissedemedim. Ama o söyledikleri şarkılar efsane işte orda o duyguyu hissedebiliyorsunuz mükemmel bir şey.… Expand
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