The Caller

The Caller is a 1987 horror film that stars the iconic Malcolm McDowell and Madolyn Smith Osborne in the leading roles. The movie is set in the peaceful town of Rosemont, where a strange and mysterious woman named Malka telephones the local radio station every night during the evening show hosted by Mary, a bestseller author. Malka claims to be a distant relative of Mary's and speaks of dark secrets and harrowing tales from the past. However, she always calls at the same time, and the people at the radio station start to wonder if there is more to her story than meets the eye.

The movie touches upon themes of mental illness, obsession, and the supernatural, making it a complex and intriguing watch for horror fans. Malka's character, in particular, is a source of great fascination, and McDowell's performance does justice to her complexity. He brings an air of unease to his conversations with Mary, and his voice seems to reach out to her even when he's not physically present in the scene.

Osborne also puts in a strong performance as Mary, who is initially tentative and curious about Malka but quickly grows worried as the mystery caller becomes more and more unhinged. She struggles with her own mental health issues in the form of PTSD from a past traumatic event. These themes of mental health are explored sensitively, and the movie doesn't shy away from the realities of the disease.

The Caller is set in the rural town of Rosemont, and the film takes advantage of the beautiful landscapes of the area. The town itself feels like a character in the movie, as the isolation and remoteness only add to the sense of unease and dread that pervades throughout. The cinematography is well done, and the movie makes the most of the natural light, casting shadows and darkness where needed to enhance the tension.

The pacing of The Caller is excellent, with a steady build-up of suspense that keeps the viewer on edge throughout the movie. The viewer never quite knows what to expect, and the uncertainty of the mystery caller's true identity adds to the overall sense of unease.

The film's climax is a satisfying and emotional one, leading to a twist ending that resonates with the viewer long after the credits roll. There are moments of darkness and despair in the movie, but ultimately, it is a story of hope and redemption that leaves a lasting impression.

Overall, The Caller is a well-crafted horror movie that has aged well over the years. It boasts a strong cast, excellent cinematography, and a compelling story that keeps the viewer hooked from beginning to end. McDowell and Osborne are outstanding in their roles, and the film's themes of mental illness, obsession, and the supernatural are explored with depth and sensitivity. The Caller remains a hidden gem in the horror genre and deserves to be watched.