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
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.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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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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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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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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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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!
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
August49Feb 12, 2020
Excellent historical film..................................................
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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