The Call

Year: 2013
Genre: Suspense thriller
Director: Brad Anderson


Plot: A 911 operator attempts to save a kidnapped girl's life when she receives her call, and eventually realises the culprit is someone from her past.


The gist: WWE Studios usually puts out crappy films starring one of their wrestlers, but it's nice to note that this one isn't too bad. Of course, it helps that Halle Berry is in it.

Berry plays a 911 operator who inadvertently causes a break-in victim's life and resorts to training rookie operators until one day, a kidnap victim calls the centre and she tries her best to help. She eventually discovers the kidnapper is the same man who killed the break-in victim earlier.

Credit should be given to Brad Anderson for successfully keeping the audience on the edge of their seats for most of the film's running time. Kudos also to the filmmakers for authentically presenting the world in the 911 operating centre, also known as The Hive. It's truly fascinating watching how operators handle multiple crises with ease.


The good: Halle Berry excels in the role of Jordan, the 911 operator who is determined to save the victim, and portrays her tension in true convincing fashion. Abigail Breslin is also solid as Casey, the kidnap victim, though she screams and sobs a tad too much at times.

The bad: A huge suspension of disbelief is required for the last 15 minutes of the film, when Jordan literally goes from being a 911 operator to a detective. And that ending is especially over the top.


Verdict: Despite its unbelievable final 15 minutes, The Call is mostly entertaining. Something you can take a look at if you have 90 minutes to spare. (3.5/5)