Watch Calls

"CALLS" is a unique television series that debuted on Apple TV+ in March 2021. The series is an adaptation of the French television series of the same name and is created by Timothée Hochet. It is unlike anything else on television, using only audio and minimal visuals to tell a series of interconnected stories.

The series consists of nine 12-minute episodes, and each episode tells a different story that is connected to the others in some way. The premise of the show is similar to that of a podcast, but it is not just people talking into a microphone. The series visualizes the audio as waveforms, which animate in various patterns and colors, in a way that emphasizes the emotions and tension behind the conversation.

As each episode begins, the viewer is presented with a basic premise, such as a woman's phone call with her sister or a man's conversation with his wife. As the conversation progresses, however, the viewer soon realizes that something strange is happening. The characters’ seemingly normal exchanges take a surreal turn as the story ascends into the realm of science fiction and horror.

The actors in the series include a range of notable performers, such as Aubrey Plaza, Clancy Brown, and Nika Futterman. Each actor delivers a captivating performance, and the unique format of the show highlights their voices and ability to create tension and drama even without visual cues.

One of the strengths of "CALLS" is its ability to create an immersive experience for the viewer. The series plays with sound in creative ways, using effects such as echo, reverb, and distortion to heighten the tension and atmospheric sounds such as rainfall, birdsong, and dog barking to create palpable moods. The show also capitalizes on the power of phone calls, a technology that has become ubiquitous in modern society, to create stories that feel both timely and timeless.

Another strength of the series is its writing. The series is designed to keep viewers guessing, and each episode is structured like a mystery that unfolds over the course of the conversation. While some of the stories are more straightforward than others, they all feature twists and turns that keep the audience on edge. The storylines are also interwoven in a subtle way, with callbacks and references that create a sense of cohesion throughout the series.

While the show's storytelling is strong, the format of the series feels somewhat limiting. Due to the lack of visual storytelling, the viewer is left to imagine what is happening on screen. Although this can be a strength in terms of building tension and suspense, it can also be frustrating when important details are left unclear. Additionally, the show's use of sound effects and music can sometimes feel heavy-handed, detracting from the overall experience.

Overall, "CALLS" is a fascinating and unique experience. The show offers a perfect combination of science fiction and horror, taking advantage of the audio-only format to create a sonic world that is both immersive and terrifying. For fans of the genre looking for something new and unique, "CALLS" is definitely worth checking out.

Calls is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (9 episodes). The series first aired on March 19, 2021.

Where to Watch Calls

Calls is available for streaming on the Apple TV+ website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Calls on demand at Apple TV+.