Call of the Void: A Journey into Cosmic Terror
It Got In My Head and Stayed There
After indulging in Call of the Void, I found myself entranced—this wasn’t just another moody horror flick; it was an experience that lingered long after the credits rolled. The haunting echoes of an eerily disquieting lullaby filled my thoughts. Questions bubbled up: What exactly was that tune? Where did the enigmatic Professor Blackwood vanish to? And why does the entire atmosphere feel subtly, disturbingly off-kilter?
The Opening Is a Cosmic Warning
From the moment the film begins, you know you’re in for something unique. The opening sequence features a spinning planet, but it’s not just visually captivating—it feels cosmically wrong. The trippy, disorienting imagery serves a greater purpose. Director James B. Cox expertly sets the tone, aiming not merely to entertain but to shake you to your core.
Meet Mury—But Don’t Get Too Comfortable
Entering this unsettling world is Caitlin Carver, who portrays Mury, an artist seeking solitude in a mountain cabin to unleash her creativity. However, peace is an elusive dream. On her first night, she encounters Professor Blackwood, played by Ted Barton. At first, he seems harmless, ambling with his small dog, but his parting words weigh heavily—a warning that suggests something much darker lurks nearby.
Then Things Get Worse—There’s a Band
Soon after, Mury crosses paths with a nearby band residing in another cabin. Led by Lucy (portrayed by Mina Sundwall), the group initially presents a quirky, artsy vibe. But their demeanor quickly shifts to eerie and unsettling. Their silences stretch too long, their gazes linger unsettlingly.
When Mury casually mentions Professor Blackwood, the band stiffens, instantly denying his presence with unsettling certainty. You can almost feel the tension in the air, hinting that something sinister is afoot.
The Hike That Shouldn’t Have Happened
Eventually, the band invites Mury for a hike up the mountain—her first instincts to decline are commendable, but in classic horror fashion, she decides to tag along. This isn’t your ordinary bonding experience. Upon reaching the summit, they split up—not into pairs or small groups, but solo.
This sequence is one of the most unnerving in the entire movie, evoking a sense of ritualistic danger, where it feels akin to offering oneself up to the unknown.
A Beautiful Descent Into Cosmic Madness
The film dances in surreal rhythms reminiscent of Lars von Trier, yet it remains more accessible. Imagine if Melancholia took a wrong turn, got lost in the woods, and returned smothered in moss. The performances across the board shine, especially among Richard Ellis, Christian Antidormi, and Ethan Herisse, who bring a haunting charisma to their roles.
Even when words are scarce, the weight of unspoken tension hangs palpably in the air. The score, akin to static, echoes softly in your chest; it doesn’t scream—it crawls.
Final Thoughts: Stay Away from the Trailhead
Call of the Void is not a film that merely demands your attention; it insists on it. Unsettling in a way that captures the essence of cosmic horror, it remains mysterious, unexplainable, and quietly devastating. It’s undoubtedly worth the experience, though fair warning—you might find sleepless nights waiting for you afterward.
Available now to rent or buy on Amazon. But heed my advice: If anyone invites you to a solo hike, say no. Just don’t go.
Directed by: James B. Cox
Starring: Caitlin Carver, Mina Sundwall, Richard Ellis, Christian Antidormi, Ethan Herisse, Ted Barton
Conclusion
In summary, Call of the Void is a masterclass in psychological horror, interweaving elements of cosmic unease with relatable human fear. Prepare for a thrilling ride that will echo within you long after viewing.
