The 2008 supernatural horror film, ‘One Missed Call,’ directed by Eric Valette, takes inspiration from the Japanese thriller ‘Chakushin Ari.’
One Missed Call Plot Synonpsis
Starring Shannyn Sossamon, Edward Burns, Ray Wise, and others, the movie follows the story of Beth Raymond, a psychology major who witnesses her friends’ deaths after receiving ominous voicemails predicting their dying moments.
As the police get involved, Officer Jack Andrews, a victim’s brother, teams up with Beth to unravel the haunting mystery behind the killings. If you’re curious about the ending of ‘One Missed Call’ and where Jack and Beth’s investigation leads them, keep reading. Warning: Spoilers ahead!
The movie begins with the death of a college student, Shelly, who is dragged into a pond by a mysterious hand. The police initially label it as a suicide. Shelly’s friend, Leann, receives a voicemail from Shelly’s phone after her death, foretelling her own demise. Leann starts experiencing hallucinations and eventually dies after being pushed from a bridge by a supernatural force.
Beth’s friend, Brian, also receives a similar voicemail and meets a tragic end when an explosion impales him with a metal bar. As Beth tries to bring attention to the voice messages, she catches the attention of Officer Jack Andrews, who believes there is a connection between the deaths.
One Missed Call Ending: Does Beth Die?
Beth realizes that she only has a day left to live. Jack tries to seek help from the police department, but his claims are dismissed. Determined to protect Beth, Jack stays with her. They discover crucial information about Marie Layton, an abusive mother, and her daughters. Laurel, Marie’s daughter, is the key to unraveling the mystery.
Beth and Jack split up to investigate further. Beth encounters supernatural occurrences in the ruined hospital, Saint Luke’s, and eventually finds Marie’s lifeless body. As the predicted time of Beth’s death approaches, Marie’s spirit pins her down but does not kill her. Jack arrives and saves Beth.
Who is Behind The Killings?
Through their investigation, Beth and Jack learn that Marie’s daughter, Ellie, had been the one inflicting harm on her sister, Laurel. Ellie’s spirit, existing on the same wavelength as light and microwaves, travels through cellphones, leaving behind red candy as a calling card. Ellie’s vengeful spirit seeks to continue her cycle of violence.
Why Does Marie Save Beth?
Marie’s spirit has been present since her death, but she only intervenes to protect Beth from Ellie’s attempts. There are a few possible reasons for this. Firstly, Beth’s past traumatic experiences with her abusive mother resonate with Marie, who sympathizes with her.
Additionally, Beth’s psychology background may have helped her understand Marie’s troubled mindset, creating a connection between them.
During her childhood, Beth suffered abuse from her mother, which left her with cigarette burn marks on her hands. Marie might have sensed Beth’s vulnerability and sought to shield her from Ellie’s actions. However, Marie’s protection is limited to Beth, as she leaves Ellie to continue her haunting.
In the end, Ellie stops trying to kill Beth but proceeds to dial another voicemail on Jack’s phone, indicating the possibility of a never-ending cycle of violence.
The Ambiguous Ending and Final Thoughts
‘One Missed Call’ concludes with a level of ambiguity, leaving the audience questioning the fate of the characters and the potential continuation of the haunting. The film suggests that while Beth escapes Ellie’s clutches, the cycle of death might persist, as Ellie moves on to her next victim.
In summary, ‘One Missed Call’ is a supernatural horror film filled with suspense and unexpected twists. The exploration of abuse, trauma, and the power of spirits adds depth to the storyline. With its chilling atmosphere and intriguing plot, this movie will keep you on the edge of your seat.
