Unexpected Call Sparks Intense Drama

Read Time:3 Minute, 7 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
On the Line
–

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 1h 14m
Director(s): Oliver Pearn
Writer(s): Oliver Pearn
Cast: Victoria Lucie, Harriet Walter, Royce Pierreson, Joanne Rogers
Where To Watch: available on UK digital January 22, 2024, from Miracle Media

RAVING REVIEW: Picture yourself in a small room, not much larger than a closet, armed with nothing but a telephone switching board and your drive to help unravel a mystery. This is the scenario outlined in ON THE LINE. Victoria Lucie shines as Agnes, a telephone operator whose mundane life in the 1960s, takes a dramatic twist with a mysterious call. This isn't just a thriller; it's a deep dive into Agnes' psyche as she faces a potential kidnapping situation.

Under Oliver Pearn's direction, ON THE LINE takes a minimalist approach, suspenseful and intriguing from the first ring to the last. Lucie's performance as Agnes is the film's crowning jewel. She expertly juggles a sense of professionalism with an underlying vulnerability, making the audience feel every pulse of her emotional struggle. The film's focus on this one location and one character is a bold choice, creating an immersive experience that draws the viewer into Agnes' isolated world.

The film gives you an unparalleled experience, feeling almost like a radio show from yesteryear. Lucie is the only character we see, and everything else must be conveyed via voice acting and the sound design/score. ON THE LINE occasionally walks along some familiar paths within the thriller genre. While it offers new twists with its unique setting and character-driven plot, I would have liked to see a more significant turn. Its exploration of themes like mental health and the evolving role of technology in communication gives it a contemporary edge, even though it's a period piece.

The film also exposes the societal expectations of women in the 1960s, adding layers to Agnes' character and providing insightful commentary on gender dynamics. This thematic exploration sets ON THE LINE apart in a genre typically focused on surface-level suspense.

ON THE LINE is a well-crafted psychological thriller, marked by its unique setting, a solid central performance, and a thoughtful look at deeper societal issues. It offers a gripping and intimate portrayal of a character's journey through a challenging and mysterious situation. Victoria Lucie's performance is a highlight, and Oliver Pearn's direction keeps the film engaging and thought-provoking from start to finish. For those who enjoy a suspenseful story with a dash of character depth, ON THE LINE is a must-watch.

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[photo courtesy of MIRACLE MEDIA]

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