Mr. Harrigan’s Phone movie review

MOVIE TITLE: Mr. Harrigan’s Phone

This horror mystery movie was released on October 5, 2022 and is now available to stream online.

RATING: PG-13

LENGTH: 1 hour 44 minutes

MOVIE REVIEW MOM GRADE: C

IN A NUTSHELL:

When Mr. Harrigan dies, Craig, the teen who befriended and did odd jobs for him, puts his smartphone in the old man’s pocket before burial. When the lonely youth sends his dead friend a message, he is shocked to get a return text.

This unnerving film was directed by John Lee Hancock and based on a short novella written by Stephen King.

THINGS I LIKED:

That cast is blessed by two fantastic actors: Donald Sutherland and Jaeden Martell. I loved watching their interplay and hearing their sensitive conversations about life and books.
The story takes its time studying the two main characters in very dramatic fashion. It’s intriguing to see two very different personalities at opposite ends of their lives.
I liked the use of a narrator to lead us along the journey.
If you follow Stephen King, you can see his Tweet on October 12, 2022 where he reveals what the mysterious texts from the grave spell out!

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:

The weakness in the film is that people see Stephen King’s name attached to it and assume it will be another brilliant horror. It’s not really a horror, although there are some supernatural forces at work. The other weakness is that the supernatural forces are never explained and we’re left with shrugging shoulders. There are many unanswered questions.
It’s a very slow burn.

TIPS FOR PARENTS:

Kids will probably be bored waiting for something to “happen.”
Bullying is portrayed
Some “mild” profanity

THEMES:

Bullying
Age
Wisdom in literature
Money and power
Influence
Courage
Standing up for yourself
Technology & cell phones

FUNNY LINES:

None. It’s a pretty serious drama, although some conversations are mildly amusing.

INTERESTING LINES:

“You are a far different person now than who you were when we met.” – Mr. Harrigan (Donald Sutherland)
“The true value of money is not measured in worth; the true value of money is measured in power.” – Mr. Harrigan (Donald Sutherland)
“When the gods wish to punish us, they answer our prayers.” – Narrator
“My grandma always used to say a person shouldn’t call out unless they want an answer.” – Craig (Jaeden Martell)