“When a Stranger Calls” is a classic horror movie from 1979 that will leave you on the edge of your seat. A babysitter finds herself alone in a big, creepy house when she receives threatening calls from an unknown stranger. The suspense builds as she tries desperately to escape and survive the night. With heart-pounding intensity and chilling surprises, this movie is a must-see for horror fans.
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Review
The phone rings. A woman answers. “Have you checked the children?” a voice asks. In the classic horror film “When a Stranger Calls,” this simple conversation sets off a chain of events that culminate in a terrifying battle for survival.
With its tense plot and skillful direction, “When a Stranger Calls” is an emblematic example of suspenseful cinema. Directed by Fred Walton and released in 1979, the film stars Carol Kane as Jill Johnson, a teenage babysitter who receives ominous phone calls from an unknown man while on duty.
As the calls become more frequent and menacing, Jill’s sense of safety dwindles. When she finally calls the police, they trace the call – only to find that it’s coming from inside the house.
From there, the film builds to an unforgettable climax as Jill discovers that her stalker is not just any stranger – but someone with a grudge against her and her family.
The plot of “When a Stranger Calls” was inspired by an urban legend that had been circulating for years before the movie’s release. According to this legend, a babysitter receives unnerving phone calls before discovering that they’re coming from inside the house where she’s working.
Walton jumps off this premise and builds on it masterfully, crafting an eerie atmosphere through tension-filled scenes and haunting music cues. The film’s score was composed by Dana Kaproff – notable for its use of ambient soundscapes and jarring orchestral interludes.
But beyond its chilling storyline and effective cinematography, “When a Stranger Calls” also boasts incredible acting performances from its leads. Kane brings depth and nuance to her role as Jill Johnson, imbuing her character with vulnerability and persistence in equal measure.
Meanwhile, Charles Durning shines as John Clifford – the police officer tasked with protecting Jill in her time of need. Durning brings gravitas to his role as he works tirelessly to track down the source of the menacing phone calls before it’s too late.
Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, “When a Stranger Calls” has become a cult classic in the years since. Its influence can be seen in countless horror films and television shows that have followed in its footsteps – from “Scream” to “American Horror Story.”
The film has also spawned its share of parodies and pop culture references, including an iconic scene in “The Simpsons” where Bart repeats the famous line “Have you checked the children?” to Lisa over and over again.
Overall, “When a Stranger Calls” remains an enduring example of how effective horror cinema can be when executed with skill and care. Its blend of psychological suspense, chilling visuals, and outstanding acting performances make it well worth revisiting time and time again.
In conclusion, watching “When A Stranger Calls” is an unforgettable experience that will keep you on edge from beginning to end. Every element of this cinematic masterpiece comes together to create a hauntingly realistic story that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The acting performances are top notch and the direction is expertly done. If you’re a fan of classic horror films or just looking for something to keep you up at night, “When A Stranger Calls” is a must-see film that will frighten even the bravest souls among us.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 97
- Release : 1979-10-26
- Genre : Horror, Thriller, Drama, Crime, Mystery
- Cast : Carol Kane as Jill Johnson, Charles Durning as John Clifford, Colleen Dewhurst as Tracy, Tony Beckley as Curt Duncan, Rutanya Alda as Mrs. Mandrakis
- Crew : Donald Peterman as Director of Photography, Steve Feke as Producer, Steve Feke as Writer, Fred Walton as Director, Fred Walton as Writer
- Popularity 9.274
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Melvin Simon Productions, Columbia Pictures
- Summary : A psychopathic killer terrorizes a babysitter, then returns seven years later to menace her again.
- Tagline : …Fear is the Message!
