The Call (2020) is a South Korean psychological thriller directed by Lee Chung-hyun, starring Park Shin-hye and Jeon Jong-seo. The film masterfully blends elements of horror, mystery, and time-travel suspense, delivering a gripping and unpredictable narrative.
Plot Summary
The story follows Seo-yeon (Park Shin-hye), a woman who travels to her childhood home in the countryside, where she receives mysterious phone calls from Young-sook (Jeon Jong-seo), a woman living in the same house—but in the past (1999). As they communicate across time, their actions begin altering the present in shocking ways. However, Young-sook’s sinister motives soon turn their connection into a deadly game of survival.
Strengths
1. Engaging Premise– The time-bending thriller concept keeps viewers hooked, with each twist amplifying the tension.
2. Strong Performances – Jeon Jong-seo delivers a chilling performance as the unhinged Young-sook, while Park Shin-hye effectively portrays desperation and fear.
3. Atmosphere & Pacing – The film maintains a dark, eerie tone, with tight pacing that rarely lags.
4. Unpredictable Twists – Just when you think you know where the story is headed, The Call throws in shocking developments.
Weaknesses
1. Logic Gaps – Some time-travel mechanics may confuse viewers, requiring suspension of disbelief.
2. Ending Ambiguity – The conclusion is open to interpretation, which may frustrate those who prefer clear resolutions.
Final Verdict
The Call is a thrilling, well-acted psychological horror that keeps you on edge. While it has minor flaws in logic, its gripping plot and intense performances make it a standout in the genre.
Rating: 4/5 – A must-watch for fans of mind-bending thrillers!
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