When a Stranger Calls Collection
When a Stranger Calls is a 1979 American psychological horror film written and directed by Fred Walton and co-written by Steve Feke. It stars Carol Kane, Colleen Dewhurst, Tony Beckley and Charles Durning. The film derives its story from the classic folk legend of "the babysitter and the man upstairs." The film has developed a large cult following over time because of the first 20 minutes, now consistently regarded as one of the scariest openings in movie history. The first 12 minutes of Wes Craven's Scream is an homage to the opening of When a Stranger Calls. The film was released in the United States on October 26, 1979, by Columbia Pictures. It was commercially successful, grossing $21,411,158 at the box office. It received a mixed critical reception, with many praising the opening scene and performances, but criticism for its writing and lack of scares. It was followed by the 1993 made-for-cable sequel When a Stranger Calls Back and a remake in 2006.
Franchise Evolution & Timeline Analysis
The When a Stranger Calls Collection has evolved significantly over a span of 14 years, growing from a singular narrative into a complex cinematic universe. With 2 interconnected entries, tracking the consistency of the franchise reveals fascinating trends in audience sentiment.
The "Series" Benchmark: 6.0/10
The franchise maintains a steady average rating of 6.0. While most series experience "Sequel Fatigue," When a Stranger Calls Collection has managed to keep its narrative quality relatively stable, with When a Stranger Calls standing out as the peak cinematic achievement.
Continuity vs. Commercial Appeal
Our data indicates that while the "Release Order" is preferred for first-time viewers, the "Chronological Order" provides a much deeper understanding of the world-building within the When a Stranger Calls Collection. The timeline highlights a consistent narrative drive across all chapters.
Timeline & Watch Order
We recommend watching the When a Stranger Calls Collection franchise in the following order to fully experience the narrative expansion.
When a Stranger Calls
A student babysitter has her evening disturbed when the phone rings. So begins a series of increasingly terrifying and threatening calls that lead to a shocking...
When a Stranger Calls Back
A retired detective and a crisis-center counselor hunt a killer stalking a coed....
Common Questions about When a Stranger Calls Collection
How many movies are in the When a Stranger Calls Collection?
There are currently 2 movies in the When a Stranger Calls Collection, starting from When a Stranger Calls to the latest release, When a Stranger Calls Back.
What is the best order to watch the When a Stranger Calls Collection?
The best way to watch the When a Stranger Calls Collection is usually in release order: starting with When a Stranger Calls and ending with When a Stranger Calls Back. Check our timeline for the full chronological breakdown.
Which is the highest-rated movie in the When a Stranger Calls Collection?
According to movieMx ratings, the fans have a strong preference for When a Stranger Calls in this franchise.