whitneyfwalker

Wow, this was really a thought provoking view of (insert topic here). In the beginning the film comes off as a pseudo-intellectual jousting between the two members of a newly formed couple, but the settings and dialogue become so multi layered and nuanced that you almost think in three dimensions. I felt like my brain was a sponge being wrung out as I tried to decipher the meaning of what I was seeing and hearing. I know what *I* interpreted as I watched but the point may be the journey. Paying attention is crucial to follow along. I've seen it three times so far and pick up on more each time as I noticed more about the characters who flow in and out, and the significance of the setting of where she, or anyone, is speaking. I'm trying to be vague so you can make your own decision. The production quality is excellent as well as the acting. I highly recommend this if you're in the mood to almost feel like you're on acid as you're watching a film. And in general :)

Oh boy. The acting is so bad. Ethan Hawke of course is an exception. Just like other reviewers said, there are multiple sub-stories that are never explained or just glossed over. This results in limited character development because you don't see the characters in different situations, or interacting with more than one or two people for the entire movie. So there's that. But let us get to the story. The concept of the black phone is unique and interesting but again the development was so hodgepodge that you didn't understand how the story worked, nor did you care because of that your limited background knowledge. The production value is very high so that is where my score of a five came from. I didn't feel right and giving it a 6 because of the aforementioned issues, plus it was completely boring. A few schticks held my attention for...ten seconds apiece? And then nothing. If you are bored, sure watch this it will pass the time but just know it is NOT what I would call a quality horror film.

So, this movie would be great if you were 11 or 12. But if you're over that age you are out of luck. It's over acted, formulaic, and just plain not interesting. Which is so, so, sad because there's so much wasted talent here! But it's super perky, almost like a Disney movie on Adderall. Too many clichés just keep coming. Now I'm 45 minutes in and calling it a night.