Harriet

Harriet

movie

PG-13, 2019, Action, Biography

WISE
71%

WISE Score

74

Avg. Tomatometer

Powerful Tubman biopic that doesn't shy from slavery's brutality—historically vital but emotionally intense.

IMDb6.7
RT Critics74%
MC66
Common Sense Media
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Screenwise Verdict

This is important cinema that tells a story every American should know. Cynthia Erivo brings Tubman to life with fierce dignity, and the film doesn't sanitize the horrors of slavery or the incredible risks Tubman took.

That said, it's a tough watch. The violence is realistic and frequent, and the emotional weight is real. The 6.7 IMDb rating suggests critics found it somewhat conventional in execution—it's a solid biopic but not groundbreaking filmmaking. The massive 97% audience score tells a different story: people are deeply moved by it.

For families with tweens and teens ready to engage with difficult history, this is valuable viewing. Just don't put it on expecting entertainment—this is education and empathy-building wrapped in a historical drama. Have the conversation before and after, and be ready for heavy questions.

Age Fit

Best for ages 12+ who are ready for serious historical content. The violence is realistic and the subject matter is heavy. Younger mature kids (10-11) might handle it with parental context, but this isn't a casual family movie night pick—it requires preparation and follow-up conversation.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
72

Models extraordinary courage, determination, and selflessness through Tubman's story. Shows compassion and cooperation as she risks everything to free others. However, the violence and brutality of slavery—beatings, shootings, deaths—create emotional heaviness that's appropriate for the subject but challenging for younger viewers. Not chaotic, but the tone is serious and sometimes painful.

Imaginative
58

A straightforward biographical drama that follows historical events rather than inviting creative exploration. The storytelling is conventional—linear narrative, standard biopic structure. While Tubman's ingenuity and resourcefulness are depicted, the film doesn't particularly spark imagination or curiosity beyond learning her story. It's educational but not creatively inspiring.

Safe
55

Common Sense Media recommends age 12+. Violence is frequent and upsetting—enslaved people are pursued, beaten, and shot, with some deaths shown close-up. Racist slurs are used (historically accurate but jarring). The brutality is never gratuitous but is realistic to the subject matter. Parents should expect to have difficult conversations and know what their kids are watching beforehand. This isn't a surprise-violence situation given the subject, but it's intense.

Enriching
88

Extremely enriching for understanding American history, the reality of slavery, and one of history's most remarkable heroes. Builds empathy, teaches about injustice and resistance, and shows how one person's courage can change hundreds of lives. The ethical and historical lessons are profound. Strong 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes suggests it resonates deeply. This is important history told through a compelling personal story.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Tells the story of one of America's greatest heroes with respect and power—kids should know Harriet Tubman's real story
  • Shows courage, sacrifice, and moral conviction in action, not just words—Tubman risked everything repeatedly to free others
  • Historically accurate portrayal helps kids understand the reality of slavery and the Underground Railroad beyond textbook summaries
  • 97% audience score suggests it genuinely moves people and creates lasting impact
  • Opens crucial conversations about justice, freedom, and standing up against injustice
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What to Watch For

  • Realistic violence throughout—enslaved people beaten, shot, killed on screen. Some close-up brutality that's hard to watch
  • Racist slurs used in historical context—accurate but jarring, especially for younger kids
  • Emotionally heavy subject matter that may be overwhelming without proper framing and discussion
  • Not a feel-good movie despite the heroism—the reality of slavery is front and center

Conversation Starters

  • "What do you think gave Harriet the courage to go back so many times to help others escape?"
  • "How do you think enslaved people found hope and kept going in such terrible conditions?"
  • "Why do you think some people risked their lives to help on the Underground Railroad while others didn't?"
  • "What does Harriet's story teach us about standing up for what's right even when it's dangerous?"

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