When a Stranger Calls Back
1993

Official trailer Carol Kane
Jill Johnson

Charles Durning
John Clifford

Colleen Dewhurst
Tracy

Tony Beckley
Curt Duncan

Rutanya Alda
Mrs. Mandrakis

Carmen Argenziano
Dr. Mandrakis
Kirsten Larkin
Nancy

Ron O'Neal
Lt. Charlie Garber
Heetu
Houseboy

Rachel Roberts
Dr. Monk

Michael Champion
Bill

William Boyett
Sgt. Sacker (as Bill Boyett)

Wuchak
Jun 26, 2022
**_A killer psycho escapes from the asylum and…_** “When a Stranger Calls” (1979) is low-key horror mixed with detective drama/thriller. I say “low-key” because there’s little-to-no gore, although there’s suspense, chases and flashes of violence. It’s very polished and was obviously influenced by the artistic “Halloween” (1978) except with a very human antagonist as opposed to the indestructible Michael Myers. Then there’s the big city detective element à la “Dirty Harry” (1971) and “Tightrope” (1984), but with a pot-bellied, average-guy investigator (Charles Durning). The film’s best known for its harrowing opening sequence, which was borrowed for Wes Craven’s “Scream” (1996) with Drew Barrymore taking over Carol Kane’s role. It’s a work of art with a rich, atmospheric score by Dana Kaproff. Unfortunately there’s a little too much drag time in the long mid-section, which wouldn’t work for modern viewers with ADHD. Then there’s the individual unconscious in the closet with no wounds (rolling my eyes). The movie runs 1 hour, 37 minutes, and was shot in the Los Angeles. GRADE: B-/B