Call of the Void is constantly keeping the audiences disoriented. Even the premise sounds like something out of a 1980s slasher. After being unceremoniously let go from her job, Moray (Caitlin Carver, I, Tonya) heads out to a cabin in the woods to have some alone time. Her plans are derailed when a group of college students who are also in a band arrive. When she walks in on a recording session, she unknowingly walks into a world from which there may be no return.
The opening is fantastic. What at first seems like another fancy studio logo becomes louder and more ominous as the seconds tick away. It soon becomes clear that it is something far more threatening. The crescendo leads to the title in which even the font sets up a creepy atmosphere that never goes away.
Call of the Void spends the first act introducing its characters. The conversation seems normal enough, but something always seems just a little off. As friendly as the band outwardly are, they seem to be holding something back. Writer-director James B. Cox adds to this feeling using great sound design. Conversations are held in the background and sometimes overlap. It is a cool idea that adds to the confusion.
This carries throughout the entire film. Sound is very important with music and the calls of nature playing important roles in Call of the Void. Coupled with some beautiful camerawork, it is almost sensory overload. There is a lot to take in and everything seems to point in the same direction; something is not right.
Perhaps ironically, the same can be said of the movie itself. Due to the story it is telling, it is no surprise that there are still many unanswered questions by the time the final credits roll. This is not necessarily a bad thing and actually does add to the uncomfortable tone Call of the Void has established. The setting is great and the actors do the best with what they are given.
Much like Call of the Void, it is hard to pinpoint what is wrong, but something is missing. There are weird interactions between the characters and it often feels like the movie does not explain why someone is acting a certain way. The audience is just expected to accept it. At times, it can be a very frustrating watch.
Of course, this may all be intentional. The film is centered around its mystery and actively works at keeping anyone watching off-guard. And it will definitely have anyone watching asking, “Why?” Which is exactly what this type of story should do. However, it seems like it is trying too hard while not doing enough.
Call of the Void is available on digital platforms now.
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