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The Calling

Name: The Calling
Director: Jason Stone
Released: 2014
Duration: 108 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

2014

Director

Jason Stone

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Calling functions as a conventional mid-2010s thriller, emphasizing individual psychological tension over systemic or layered explorations. The narrative structure relies on established genre clichés that favor traditional social dynamics. Character roles and social structures remain largely homogeneous. The film lacks the intentionality needed to disrupt cultural hierarchies, focusing instead on a singular investigative struggle within a standard Western framework. Ultimately, the work does not engage with progressive social frameworks, resulting in a narrow representation of identity and experience.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Calling have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or storylines. It stays within a traditional thriller format that does not prioritize or highlight non-straight identities.

How does The Calling portray gender?

Limited

Detective Hazel Micallef holds a position of authority, but the story focuses on male-centric themes of obsession. The narrative follows conventional genre clichés rather than challenging gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Calling?

Limited

The main cast is predominantly white, with no evidence of a multi-ethnic ensemble or diverse backgrounds. The production remains homogeneous in its casting choices.

How does The Calling represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story follows a typical Western procedural format without critiquing institutions like religion or capitalism. It maintains a conventional approach to authority and social stability.

Does The Calling include disability representation?

Limited

Themes of psychological trauma and mental instability serve as plot drivers for obsession. The film lacks nuanced explorations of lived experience or characters with real control over their lives.

Present on Screen

Features a female lead, Detective Hazel Micallef, in a position of professional authority.

Limited or Absent

Lacks LGBTQ+ representation and non-straight storylines.
Relies on a predominantly white cast, limiting racial and ethnic diversity.
Uses psychological instability as a narrative device rather than exploring nuanced disability experiences.
Does not engage with or critique Western cultural institutions or social hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Detective Hazel Micallef hasn't had much to worry about in the sleepy town of Port Dundas until a string of gruesome murders in the surrounding countryside brings her face to face with a serial killer driven by a higher calling.

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