When a Stranger Calls
Screen Gems | Release Date: February 3, 2006
5.3
USER SCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 132 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
55
Mixed:
28
Negative:
49
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
3
imthenoobApr 8, 2020
I remember seeing this in theaters and not really being blown away by it. It's not a bad movie but it is mediocre in the worst way. It does nothing to leave an impression and really break the mold of just being another generic horror movie.I remember seeing this in theaters and not really being blown away by it. It's not a bad movie but it is mediocre in the worst way. It does nothing to leave an impression and really break the mold of just being another generic horror movie.

It's just another unnecessary remake, which seemed to be coming out by the dozens during the time of its release. Stick with the original, It's as simple as that.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
8
MariahL.Jun 2, 2006
I really liked this movie because it kept me guessing. The only thing I disliked was it wasn't as scary as i thought it would be.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
PatrickD.Feb 5, 2006
It's a solid thriller that will freak you out. Much better than Scream
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
BryceFeb 10, 2006
I loved this movie! I think the ppl who r giving it bad reviews r just used 2 gory, disgusting movies! this movie was almost entirely clean with no sex-related themes, and the nasty minds out there just don't appreciate anything that I loved this movie! I think the ppl who r giving it bad reviews r just used 2 gory, disgusting movies! this movie was almost entirely clean with no sex-related themes, and the nasty minds out there just don't appreciate anything that isn't dirty.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
ChrisM.May 17, 2006
abosolutley gripping suspense/thriller. Nice to know I'm not the only one who dug this flick. Not to mention Camilla Belle's a real charmer.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
ChieuN.Dec 3, 2006
The terror is really great. It has a weird mystery about the stranger. Jill Johnson from the movie was very brave. The make-up and the hair-style are great too.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
SeanS.Feb 25, 2006
the best movie i've seen i know alot of people didn't like it but i thought it was very suspensing forget the critics that didn't like it they made it for the audience and i bet the audience loved it.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
HollyK.Feb 4, 2006
It was what i wanted to see. come on just the thought of someone hurting a kid is scary for me.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
RachelM.Feb 4, 2006
I loved this movie. I was wrapped up into it throughtout the entire movie from beginning to end. I will say that it needed to explain more because it did leave you pretty clueless. However, if you're looker for a good scare this I loved this movie. I was wrapped up into it throughtout the entire movie from beginning to end. I will say that it needed to explain more because it did leave you pretty clueless. However, if you're looker for a good scare this movie's prefect, it rocks!!… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
ChelseaD.Feb 4, 2006
It was soo freakin good and scary.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
CalebJun 5, 2006
Brilliant, very brilliant. The movie kept my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat as I wondered who the caller was and what he wanted. You always got the feeling that he was gonna be there behind her, but he wasn't. The drama of Brilliant, very brilliant. The movie kept my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat as I wondered who the caller was and what he wanted. You always got the feeling that he was gonna be there behind her, but he wasn't. The drama of the movie kept me in more suspense until the very end.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
KristenFeb 13, 2006
A solid thriller and appropriate for younger viewers - suspenseful, but lacking the disgusting gore and sexual themes most 'thrillers' boast these days. I have no idea what motivated the critics to review it so negatively - A solid thriller and appropriate for younger viewers - suspenseful, but lacking the disgusting gore and sexual themes most 'thrillers' boast these days. I have no idea what motivated the critics to review it so negatively - critics, in the light of their supposed expertise and experience in movies, have grossly ignored and disregarded how the target audience of this movie (clearly, teenagers) would react. after taking a bunch of teenagers to the movie, i can vouch that not only did they love the movie and find it to be a great experience, but as the adult i did as well because i was not bombarded with uncomfortable themes and images. if gore and sex are the basis of a good thriller, then yes, when a stranger calls would not merit good reviews. but if you want to take your teens or friends to see a suspenseful and exciting - and clean! - movie, then this one is a sure bet.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
KevinFeb 14, 2006
The thing about this movie is that you can't expect much from it. It is a slasher film. This movie is not meant to have meaning as most people wish it did. It is merely meant to entertain people for their $7.50. It was made to make you The thing about this movie is that you can't expect much from it. It is a slasher film. This movie is not meant to have meaning as most people wish it did. It is merely meant to entertain people for their $7.50. It was made to make you jump. And, does it entertain: Yes. Does it deserve any awards: No. Does it hold you in suspense: Yes. Does it deserve any recognition what-so-ever: Not at all. This movie is for people who want to be thrilled and are looking to have some fun. Anyone otherwise, this movie isn't for you. I liked it and I think most of you would too.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
JavierV.Jun 25, 2007
this movie should be called "The Telephone" lol , even that more than the half of the movie the girl is talking on the phone this movie really scare me , don't know why everyone hate it but this is a good movie for me , is not perfect , this movie should be called "The Telephone" lol , even that more than the half of the movie the girl is talking on the phone this movie really scare me , don't know why everyone hate it but this is a good movie for me , is not perfect , but its a good one.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
5
jimmytancrediMay 29, 2011
This movie was a great movie and was far better than the original. In this movie they stretched out the opening scene of the original. There are more characters which makes it more interesting. This movie has more chase scenes in it, unlikeThis movie was a great movie and was far better than the original. In this movie they stretched out the opening scene of the original. There are more characters which makes it more interesting. This movie has more chase scenes in it, unlike the original which basically had one. The set is also a lot more likable. Jill's acting in this one isn't superb, but it's pretty good, and also it seems like she actually cares about the children in this one. The stranger's voice isn't half as scary as the original which is the only downfall. But, you don't see the stranger's face until the end, so it makes him even more scary. Over all I recommend this movie and would give it a solid C.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
2
KyleL.Feb 10, 2006
OK, ill admit, it was entertaining....but the idea sucked...and so did all the liitle girls in theater screaming every other minute...
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
ShaneApr 8, 2006
I absolutely adored this movie(on opposite day). It took way to long until the girl finally sees the guy. It also doesn't help that the movie was only 85 minutes long. This movie was a waste of paper for making the ticket. I hated this movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
DaveG.Feb 4, 2006
Wow, this movie is terrible. If you want something really scary, go find "Black Christmas (1974)." Also, a comment to one of the other reviewers for this film, Britney S.: a movie cannot be both predictable and "keeps you guessing." Sorry. Wow, this movie is terrible. If you want something really scary, go find "Black Christmas (1974)." Also, a comment to one of the other reviewers for this film, Britney S.: a movie cannot be both predictable and "keeps you guessing." Sorry. Please don't string together contradictory thoughts, and please stop writing anything down. Just keep it all in your head and learn a trade or something.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JoekoolKFeb 5, 2006
Tremendously horrible. Everything about it was just plain stupidity. The acting, suspense were nonexistent. It will end up being one of the worst movies of the year.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
TylerD.Feb 11, 2006
This movie had nothing going for it the moment I saw the commercial. It's entirely predictable, and the commercial literally gave away the "plot twist". Half of the movie is spent with the girl freaking out and calling the cops, and the This movie had nothing going for it the moment I saw the commercial. It's entirely predictable, and the commercial literally gave away the "plot twist". Half of the movie is spent with the girl freaking out and calling the cops, and the ending was the worst I've seen and pointless. Why did she wake up in a mental institution? Who was the man in the car? You have many questions running through your head during the movie and you expect them to be answered, but they're not.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
GrantN.Feb 4, 2006
When a Stranger Calls is a rehash of the best 30 minutes of the original movie of the same name. If it had been able to keep that suspense throughout the entire movie then maybe it would be able to succeed. But alas it gives out the largest When a Stranger Calls is a rehash of the best 30 minutes of the original movie of the same name. If it had been able to keep that suspense throughout the entire movie then maybe it would be able to succeed. But alas it gives out the largest plot twist in the trailer. Also Brittney S. clearly does not have a good grasp on the English language judging by her comment "While being PREDICTABLE it keeps you GUESSING." Which makes no sense.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JakeFeb 4, 2006
Come now Dave, just because someone likes something that you thought sucked doesn't make them an incompentent ignoramus. Her statement was not as contradictory as you would like to believe.....I absolutely HATE it we overconfident Come now Dave, just because someone likes something that you thought sucked doesn't make them an incompentent ignoramus. Her statement was not as contradictory as you would like to believe.....I absolutely HATE it we overconfident a$$holes pick on people in a condescending manner, hiding behind the veil of anonymity the internet provides...if you have so much rage pent up inside you go listen to some Eminem and play GTA. Yes, the movie was bad some people's standards (including mine), but just because you are pissed off for spending $8 dollars doesn't give you the right to insult someone's intelligence.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
RyanB.Feb 4, 2006
This movie is the worse movie that I had ever seen but the reason why im giving it a five is because it is so bad that it is funny.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
BrettS.Feb 8, 2006
Someone tell me who's dumb enough to give a movie like this a green-light. Horrible, horrible, horrible.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
JaxD.May 22, 2006
The movie wasnt a total waste, I was scared a few times. But I got really bored really easily in the begining because it took wwwaaayyy too long to get to the final slashing part! Also, a few parts were way to cliche and I could see them The movie wasnt a total waste, I was scared a few times. But I got really bored really easily in the begining because it took wwwaaayyy too long to get to the final slashing part! Also, a few parts were way to cliche and I could see them coming from a mle away.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
jackJul 15, 2006
Wow. I can't believe I attempted to watch this. Thank goodness for fast forward; I reviewed this dreck in less than 20 minutes. There is no a single gripping moment, semblance of brilliance, plot relevance, nor character empathy.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
CharlieN.May 17, 2006
I jumped once, and that's it. Boring and not suspenseful at all. One of the worst movies of the year, and by far the worst horror movie of the year.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
kayMay 18, 2006
thsi girl is the worst actor i've ever seen might be a lot of suspense but damn think of it, obviusly no other celebrity would take it so she did ha.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
MikeK.Jun 26, 2006
[***SPOILERS***]This is the worst scary/horror/suspense movie I've ever seen. It attempts to copy a whole bunch of good movies and does a horrible job at it. I knew everything that was going to happen before it happened in the movie. [***SPOILERS***]This is the worst scary/horror/suspense movie I've ever seen. It attempts to copy a whole bunch of good movies and does a horrible job at it. I knew everything that was going to happen before it happened in the movie. Then there's no development for the actual killer guy. You just assume he's just some crazy dude. they put a black cat in the movie (they thought that would be scary) and they have this stupid creepy lookin statue that these people are supposed to own (just there to be scary, which it isn't). The worst part of the movie is when the laundry door starts squeeking closed by itself and behind the door was these clothes that were like a mask and a black jacket with the wall white people colored, all perfectly spaced so it would look like a person. Why would that be there? who even would own stuff like that, and if they did why would they hang it up behind the door and in such a fashion. Every part of the movie is cliche from the killler's voice and his nonchalant walking to kill the victim. Another part that's stupid is how the girl can manage to slip through this dude's fingers a bunch of times when he looked to have a firm grip and leverage. very bad ending also. SOOO HORRIBLE!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
PaulD.Jun 14, 2007
One of the lamest horror movies I've ever seen. Many red herrings that don't lead anywhere and seems completely derivative. Don't waste your time.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
GavGav96Apr 17, 2011
Although there's still a certain degree of suspense present, this remake simply adds to the mountainous pile of remakes that simply can't outdo the original, no matter how good-looking the lead is or how flashy the setting looks.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
8
BrittneyS.Feb 3, 2006
Wow, I was legitimately scared and on the edge of my seat for this movie. While being predictable it keeps you guessing and was a very good movie and I reccomend it for any thriller movie fans.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JimJ.Feb 6, 2006
It was pretty good. Much better than your average scary movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
BrianL.Feb 2, 2006
Spawns a new generation of film: Surivival-Boredom. Chocked full of red-herrings. In fact, for most of the movie the lead female has nothing to be frightened of; save for portentous horns and strings. Disparate camera work. A director in Spawns a new generation of film: Surivival-Boredom. Chocked full of red-herrings. In fact, for most of the movie the lead female has nothing to be frightened of; save for portentous horns and strings. Disparate camera work. A director in search of a movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
MickJ.Feb 3, 2006
"..................." This is what I predict will be running repeatedly through your mind whilst watching this piece. Well, at least it gives aspiring film-makers plenty of hope. What garbage.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
RyanS.Feb 3, 2006
This movie was so pointless. No suspense at all. Everything that happens in the movie, happened in the preview. So just go watch the trailer online. Don't spend money on this cliche piece of crap. Maybe if its a huge bomb they'll This movie was so pointless. No suspense at all. Everything that happens in the movie, happened in the preview. So just go watch the trailer online. Don't spend money on this cliche piece of crap. Maybe if its a huge bomb they'll quit making horrible remakes like this.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JoeS.Feb 4, 2006
This movie was pretty good, could it have been better? yes. People say it wasn't scary, but it does have its moments.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
MattFeb 5, 2006
Ugh. I haven't seen the original, but I have heard much about it. As for this, the remake? Awful. The actual "chase" portion of the film is only about 10 minutes long and after it was over (about 80 minutes into the movie) I wasn't Ugh. I haven't seen the original, but I have heard much about it. As for this, the remake? Awful. The actual "chase" portion of the film is only about 10 minutes long and after it was over (about 80 minutes into the movie) I wasn't even sure if the movie was over. Then, they try to give you this ending "twist" that makes no sense and is basically a rehash of Halloween II. meh, my money, she is gone.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
BrianA.Feb 5, 2006
This movie would be great if it was supposed to be a COMEDY. Terrible writing, bad acting, and the main character is so stupid she deserves to be knived. Complete rubbish.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MattC.Mar 18, 2006
Call me crazy, but I loved this movie. It's the best of 2006 so far, in my opinion. It was suspenseful and terrifying and just an awesome movie. The only bad thing was it wasn't even 90 minutes, but hopefully they'll be an Call me crazy, but I loved this movie. It's the best of 2006 so far, in my opinion. It was suspenseful and terrifying and just an awesome movie. The only bad thing was it wasn't even 90 minutes, but hopefully they'll be an extended version like most films have nowadays. This film definetely gets a 10/10 from me.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
AMovieCriticJun 3, 2007
When a Stranger Calls (remake); C+ I didn't find it to be as bad as people have said. It's pretty atmospheric and at times chilling. It can be a bit tedious, (especially when characters "slowly walk" when they should be RUNNING, When a Stranger Calls (remake); C+ I didn't find it to be as bad as people have said. It's pretty atmospheric and at times chilling. It can be a bit tedious, (especially when characters "slowly walk" when they should be RUNNING, and when the caller is just not as threatening as he could be,) but the movie overall is a nice little chiller with some cool atmosphere and a really cool ending. I just wish it had more tension and less "fake out jump scares" because it DID get tedious at times, but if it's ever on TV it's worth a watch.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
maximumxxxxSep 1, 2011
I don't care what others say, I like this suspense thriller, yes its a suspense thriller not a horror movie. Its a remake which right away just by being a remake people will bash this film, you know the ones who are all "anti-remake" andI don't care what others say, I like this suspense thriller, yes its a suspense thriller not a horror movie. Its a remake which right away just by being a remake people will bash this film, you know the ones who are all "anti-remake" and anytime they hear of one it seems like their world is coming to an end. Some say this was an unnecessary remake, I disagree, this is great for teens, teenagers back when the original came out got to enjoy it and its creepiness, so this generation should as well. I thought it moved at a decent pace and was surprised that I liked this little thriller.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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0
spadenxDec 26, 2011
Its not scary, Its not suspensful. Its just a lot of pointless trash that makes you feel that you wasted 10 dollars to watch it. Its hands down one of the worst horror films out there, And imo the worst remake.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
1
csw12Aug 3, 2013
When a stranger Calls is an abysmal film that offers absolutely nothing but repeated, unnecessary phone calls that try so hard to build some kind of suspense but instead offers terrible writing, bad acting, and something that should neverWhen a stranger Calls is an abysmal film that offers absolutely nothing but repeated, unnecessary phone calls that try so hard to build some kind of suspense but instead offers terrible writing, bad acting, and something that should never have been made in the first place. … Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
Trev29Aug 4, 2013
The movie just goes around in circles with nothing actually taking place that might be considered scary. The only thing that kept it interesting was hoping it was going to come to some big climax...but even that scene was pathetic.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
RikiegeDec 22, 2012
Entertaining movie, to have fun with friends.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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5
Jamison12Jan 26, 2014
Nothing was spoiled for me as I never watched any of the trailers (I was only 10 at the time of release) so I didn't have anything spoiled for me, which when nothing is spoiled, When a Stranger Calls is actually fairly enjoyable with a coupleNothing was spoiled for me as I never watched any of the trailers (I was only 10 at the time of release) so I didn't have anything spoiled for me, which when nothing is spoiled, When a Stranger Calls is actually fairly enjoyable with a couple of good scares. However it still has many plot holes, lack of good judgement and just common sense as does many horror films.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
Meth-dudeApr 19, 2018
Apart from the fact that it is a very generic PG-13 horror movie and that the acting is dreadful, the movie isn't all that bad. The last 30 minutes, while being very predictable and cliché were pretty entertaining and the movie wasn'tApart from the fact that it is a very generic PG-13 horror movie and that the acting is dreadful, the movie isn't all that bad. The last 30 minutes, while being very predictable and cliché were pretty entertaining and the movie wasn't unwatchable. If you enjoy cliché, predictable PG-13 horror movies as guilty pleasures, you will probably find the movie at the very least entertaining, if not, you're better off watching something else.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
MrTacoBobJul 14, 2017
Okay I can agree the middle part was just filler but when the real stuff came in OH MAN! That was scary! When the person said, "The calls are coming inside the house!" I got so scared! Well it was predictable but the way he said it oh my god.Okay I can agree the middle part was just filler but when the real stuff came in OH MAN! That was scary! When the person said, "The calls are coming inside the house!" I got so scared! Well it was predictable but the way he said it oh my god. Its a really scary movie but has a lot of filler.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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9
Rcavey92212Jul 5, 2020
I know alot of people don't care for this film but I think it's one of the best remakes in my opinion. Let's face aside from the first 20 minutes the original was pretty unwatchable it was followed by a Superior showtime sequel and now remadeI know alot of people don't care for this film but I think it's one of the best remakes in my opinion. Let's face aside from the first 20 minutes the original was pretty unwatchable it was followed by a Superior showtime sequel and now remade into it's best form. Taking the originals opening and stretching it out for 90 minutes makes for a simplistic, edge of your seat, achingly suspenseful nightmare. Similar to Halloween in its form and ambitions. Camilla Belle is awesome as the young babysitter forced to work at a gorgeous house in the middle of nowhere to pay for her cell phone bill. Upon arriving she's told the children are asleep but as the night goes on there are strange occurrences and creepy phone calls with the voice of a disturbing Lance Henriksen. It all leads up to a mostly satisfactory finale as the killer and Jill have a face off. The movie is directed stylishly with gorgeous, immersive cinematography and a solid lead performance from Camilla Belle.

Budget: $15M
Box Office: $67M

8.5/10… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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1
Ryo91Apr 17, 2020
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 1/10 * - Fands eher lw.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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10
JAKEJACOBJORDSep 17, 2021
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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