Phone Booth :
Your Life Is On The Line.
An Intense Thriller Drama, shot in 12 days straight at L.A. Downtown; finds itself among the best, this year. Sketchy image of NYU Student Short film ’’End of line’’ (1996); Larry Cohen(Script Writer) scripted the idea to make a film entirely within the Phone Booth along with Alfred Hitchcock(in late 1960), but lack of interesting script left the idea on drawing board itself, till late 1990s. But the final release, is not one to be missed, for it appears to find a place in your head, & heart as well
Plot :
Colin Farell(Stuart ’Stu’ Shepard) is the most dishonest person you will meet. Publicist by profession, he finds himself picking up a unknown call in a public booth. The next thing, he finds himself as target to the Sniper(Kiefer Sutherfield). All that the Sniper wants of him is for him not to hang up the phone; and to be honest to himself and to everyone.
Lies ahead is an intense thriller 80 minutes ’short’, for I wanted it to be long.
For bizarre events that occurs, a Pimp who operates in the area is Shot at by the Sniper, for which Stu, still inside the booth, is held responsible. NYPD appears from all side wanting him to surrender, but the one thing he can’t do is to hang up the phone, for his life is on the line.
The Sniper makes Stu confess his alleged affair to his wife(Radha Mitchell), in front of Live T.V. Audience. For the presence of mind Stu shows, he escapes at end, with the Snipers life on account to NYPD.
But the Sniper do escape committing another murder of a Pizza Delivery Boy, and paying his regards to Stu; looking for another victim.
Tech Details :
For the sleek script it posses, the Larry Cohen should be given due credit. But Joel Schumacher (Director), would be an ideal nominee for this years Academy Awards. The thought of applying Split Screen should be credited to the Director. Performance by all is excellent. Though, Music by Harry Gregson-Williams does leave a lot be desired. Editing(Mark Stevens) and Cinematography(Matthew Libatique) are excellent; setting up new standards for the industry.
Few Quotes :
Sniper : ’’Isn’t it funny; you hear a phone ringing and it could be anybody. A ringing phone has to be answered.......doesn’t it ?’’
Sniper : ’’Don’t even think about leaving the booth !’’
Stu : ’’Wrong number pal.’’
Sniper : ’’I’m aiming right at you; Can you feel that Stu.’’
Sniper : ’’If you have to ask, you are not ready to know yet !’’
Verdict :
Excellent movie, a must watch. At times, abusive language used, so be-aware. Extremely enjoyable when seen along friends.
Don’t miss it !!!