The Calling (2000 film)
A mother must stop her son from leading mankind to apocalypse.
The Calling is a 2002 horror film directed by Richard Caesar. It tells the story of Kristie St. Clair, who becomes the unwilling mother of the Antichrist and may be the only one who can stop a modern apocalypse. The film is a UK-Canadian co-production.
Kristie believes she has an ideal life with her husband Marc, a charming TV personality; their young son Dylan; a beautiful countryside home; and a promising new career. Strange events soon unsettle her. Dylan becomes violent, impaling his pet guinea pig on a stake and showing no remorse when a friend dies. An old family friend, Elizabeth, seems to be trying to replace Kristie and keep her away from Marc and Dylan.
As her family grows distant and she loses her best friend, Kristie meets a mysterious taxi driver who inexplicably knows about the unfolding events. With his help, she realizes that unless she stops Dylan, he will lead humanity into a horrific future.
The cast includes Laura Harris as Kristie St. Clair, Richard Lintern as Marc St. Clair, Francis Magee as Carmac, Alex Roe as Dylan St. Clair, and Alice Krige as Elizabeth Plummer. Most filming took place in Cornwall and London, England. The film received mixed to negative reviews. Walter Chaw of Film Freak Central gave it two stars out of four, writing that it does not withstand scrutiny and the acting is "Tennessee Williams-y."
- Release year
- 2002
- Country
- United Kingdom, Canada
Lore & Background
The film centers on Kristie St. Clair, who believes she has a perfect life with her husband Marc, a TV personality, and their young son Dylan. Strange events arise: Dylan impales his pet guinea pig on a stake and shows apathy toward a friend's death. An old family friend, Elizabeth, tries to replace Kristie. As her family withdraws, Kristie meets a mysterious taxi driver who helps her realize that Dylan will lead mankind into a malevolent future unless she stops him.
Reader's Guide
The Calling received mixed to negative feedback from critics and audiences. Walter Chaw of Film Freak Central gave it two stars out of four, writing that the film does not hold up to scrutiny and that the acting is 'Tennessee Williams-y.' The film is notable for its British-German co-production and its filming locations in Cornwall and London, England. It follows the vein of classics like Rosemary's Baby and The Omen, but failed to achieve similar acclaim. Its legacy remains as a lesser-known entry in the Antichrist horror subgenre.
Did You Know?
- The film was directed by Richard Caesar.
- It is a co-production between the United Kingdom and Canada.
- Most filming took place in Cornwall and London, England.
- The cast includes Laura Harris, Richard Lintern, and Alice Krige.
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