GLOBAL — The 911 operator has a very significant role, but when we think of the numeric SOS, more than likely the image of a policeman, fireman or paramedic rushing to the scene is what comes to mind. But The Call, from director Brad Anderson (The Machinist), makes the 911 operator Jordan Turner played by Halle Berry (X-Men: The Last Stand), the epicenter of the film's plot.
Jordan works in a Los Angeles call center. She's experienced and has a way with those who call in for help, even if it's something as mundane as a bat flying around the house. However, the table quickly turns when Jordan receives a call from a teenage girl who's home alone when an intruder invades her home. Jordan is cool and calm when instructing the girl what to do, until it ends tragically after a mishap by Jordan.
Traumatized by the loss of her 911 caller, Jordan takes on the role of trainer but isn't in the role long before she has to take over for a less experienced operator. At this point the film becomes action-packed, when Casey Welson played by Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine) is kidnapped from a shopping mall garage and stuffed in a trunk. Lucky for her she still has a phone and calls 911.
Jordan calms and reassures her that help is on the way. Meanwhile, Jordan gives Casey tasks to help the police locate her, from kicking out a tail light and waving her hand to pouring paint found in the trunk through the hole. Each time her advice works, even if only temporary until the psychotic kidnapper discovers something is awry.
The plot has the normal twists and turns of a thriller with a fresh approach to the storyline. The role of the passionate operator is perfect for Halle – drama becomes her. Abigail is believable and able to take her character from a carefree teen hanging at the mall with a friend, to a kidnapped and traumatized young girl fighting for her life.
The only time the film comes up short is at the end. When most films neatly wrap up the conclusion, "The Call" just abrupty ends, leaving you wanting more. Nevertheless, if you're looking for a flick to watch with your BFFs this weekend, it's worth a watch. Your eyes will be glued to the screen as you sit on the edge of your seat routing for a rescue – at least that's what I did.
Chicly Yours,
The Chic Spy
Release: Friday, March 15th
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHrZxG9W3RI[/youtube]
(Image courtesy of Sony Pictures)
