When a Stranger Calls (1979)
Overview
A student babysitter has her evening disturbed when the phone rings. So begins a series of increasingly terrifying and threatening calls that lead to a shocking revelation.
Cast
Carol Kane
Jill Johnson
Charles Durning
John Clifford
Colleen Dewhurst
Tracy
Tony Beckley
Curt Duncan
Rutanya Alda
Mrs. Mandrakis
Carmen Argenziano
Dr. Mandrakis
Ron O'Neal
Lt. Charlie Garber
Rachel Roberts
Dr. Monk
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Wuchak
**_A killer psycho escapes from the asylum and…_**
“When a Stranger Calls” (1979) is low-key horror mixed with detective drama/thriller. I say “low-key” because there’s little-to-no gore, although there’s suspense, chases and flashes of violence. It’s very polished and was obviously influenced by the artistic “Halloween” (1978) except with a very human antagonist as opposed to the indestructible Michael Myers. Then there’s the big city detective element à la “Dirty Harry” (1971) and “Tightrope” (1984), but with a pot-bellied, average-guy investigator (Charles Durning).
The film’s best known for its harrowing opening sequence, which was borrowed for Wes Craven’s “Scream” (1996) with Drew Barrymore taking over Carol Kane’s role.
It’s a work of art with a rich, atmospheric score by Dana Kaproff. Unfortunately there’s a little too much drag time in the long mid-section, which wouldn’t work for modern viewers with ADHD. Then there’s the individual unconscious in the closet with no wounds (rolling my eyes).
The movie runs 1 hour, 37 minutes, and was shot in the Los Angeles.
GRADE: B-/B
