In the gripping horror film Mr. Harrigan’s Phone based on Stephen King’s novella, the story revolves around John Harrigan and Craig, the book reader he hires. After Harrigan’s death, Craig keeps the phone he was gifted and continues to send messages to it.
Shockingly, he receives text messages back from the buried phone. Let’s delve into the meaning behind these cryptic messages and their significance in the film.
The Meaning of Messages in Mr. Harrigan’s Phone
The first message Craig receives is “C C C aa” immediately after Harrigan’s death. Following the demise of Kenny Yankovich, Craig’s bully, he receives the message “a a. C C C x.” Lastly, after the accidental death of Deane Whitmore, who caused the demise of Ms. Hart, Craig receives “C C C s T.”
Connecting the dots, Craig realizes that “C C C s T” stands for “Craig Stop,” a message from Harrigan urging him to end their unusual and consequential relationship.
The third message is a reminder from Harrigan to Craig that he needs to let go of their unnatural friendship. By accepting Harrigan’s death and moving on, Craig will allow the old man to find peace in his resting place. Similarly, the first message, “C C C aa,” can be interpreted as “Craig ask anything,” indicating Harrigan’s desire to continue supporting him even in death.
Throughout their relationship, Harrigan and Craig have provided emotional support to one another, and Harrigan’s sudden passing cuts that support short. The second message, “a a. C C C x,” may reaffirm the first, as Craig receives it when he wonders if Harrigan protected him from Kenny by eliminating the bully.
However, it’s important to note that these interpretations are speculative rather than definitive meanings. When a fan asked Stephen King about Harrigan telling Craig to stop three times, the author responded ambiguously with “Yes. Craig stop.” This ambiguity leaves room for individual interpretation and invites viewers to explore the depths of the messages.
It’s also plausible that “C C C aa,” “a a. C C C x,” and “C C C s T” all convey the same meaning: “Craig stop.” The repetition of “aa/a a” in the first two messages could represent Harrigan’s distress caused by Craig’s unwillingness to let go and move forward from his death.
Craig’s continuous communication with Harrigan may prevent the old man from finding eternal rest. The text messages can be seen as Harrigan’s way of urging Craig to stop expecting his presence.
By respecting Harrigan’s final wish and letting go, Craig will allow the deceased to find peace and closure, ultimately benefiting both of them.
In the end, the meaning behind the text messages remains complex and open to interpretation. Each viewer may have a unique understanding based on their perspective and personal connection with the story. “Mr. Harrigan’s Phone” offers an intriguing glimpse into the world of the supernatural and the intricate bond between the living and the dead.
As viewers, we can appreciate the beauty of ambiguity and embrace the mystery surrounding the text messages in “Mr. Harrigan’s Phone.” These messages serve as a catalyst for introspection, inviting us to reflect on our own relationships, the concept of letting go, and the power of closure.
Ultimately, the true meaning of “C C C aa,” “a a. C C C x,” and “C C C s T” in “Mr. Harrigan’s Phone” may remain elusive. The magic lies in the journey of deciphering these messages and exploring the depths of their significance.
It’s a testament to the thought-provoking storytelling that Stephen King is known for, leaving us captivated by the mysteries that lie within the realm of the unknown.
Check out the trailer below.
Via Collider
