Movie Reviews

‘Death of a Telemarketer’ review: Realistic look at much maligned job

Always be closing!

December 4, 2021

Death of a Telemarketer is a comedic look at what might happen when someone gets tired of receiving unsolicited phone calls. Kasey (Lamorne Morris) is great at what he does, but may have bitten off more than he can chew when he gets in a sales contest with a new employee (Woody McClain). When Kasey resorts to using the Do Not Call list in order to win, he is forced into a test on ethics in which his answers are the difference between life and death.

Anyone who has ever worked in a call center will appreciate how accurate the film’s portrayal of the environment. It is a cutthroat world in which contests are held for thrones, best practices are used against the person who shared them, and not being completely honest is rewarded. Whether intentional or not, Death of a Telemarketer is a great behind the scenes look at a fascinating, if unsavory, world.

Death of a Telemarketer is effortlessly funny. This is partially due to how well it conveys the world of high pressure cold calls, but it is also because of its excellent cast. Some characters may be a little too on the nose, but for the most part, the film has created a genuine group. Credit also has to go to the performances. Again, they can be too over the top at times, but nothing every negatively impacts the film.

Though things eventually morph into a hostage story, there is a surprisingly lack of tension. Ironically, this may be due to the lack of a sense of urgency displayed in Death of a Telemarketer. The plot can get a bit murky at times and the lack of a satisfactory resolution is certainly disappointing, but there are laughs to be found. Even better, there is no need to worry about getting them off the line.