The Call
Performance & Direction: The Call Review
Last updated: February 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Call (2020) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Call features a noteworthy lineup led by Lin Shaye . Supported by the likes of Tobin Bell and Chester Rushing , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Call
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2020, The Call is a Horror, Thriller film directed by Timothy Woodward Jr.. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Lin Shaye.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. In the fall of 1987, a group of small-town friends must survive the night in the home of a sinister couple after a tragic accident occurs. Needing only to make a single phone call, the request seems horribly ordinary until they realize that this call could change their life…or end it. Director Timothy Woodward Jr. uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Ending Explained: The Call
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Timothy Woodward Jr., The Call attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Lin Shaye, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Call reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Call?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: The Call
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $791.8K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Top Cast: The Call
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Call Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
fuboTV
Peacock Premium
AMC+ Amazon Channel
Philo
Shudder Amazon Channel
Screambox Amazon Channel
Midnight Pulp
Shudder Apple TV Channel
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Peacock Premium Plus
Midnight Pulp Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeThe Call Parents Guide & Age Rating
2020 AdvisoryWondering about The Call age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Call is 97 minutes (1h 37m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.5/10, and global performance metrics, The Call is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2020 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Call worth watching?
The Call is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 5.5/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Call parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Call identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Call?
The total duration of The Call is 97 minutes, which is approximately 1h 37m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked The Call
How The Call Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for The Call
No reviews found for this filter.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
