The Telling (2009) is categorized as a horror horror film that comprises of twists and terror which was directed by Nicholas Carpenter who also wrote along with Joe Lessard and Harry Grigsby. The film is orchestrated by Charles Band’s Full Moon Features, and is an admixture of horror sub-genres, dark humor and camp with the main theme revolving around sorority houses and urban legends. Of note is the fact that it featured Bridget Marquardt who is also a star of The Girls Next Door and in many ways comes off as a typical B-movie.
Plot Overview
The film revolves around three young women attempting to join a prestigious sorority. As part of their initiation, they must tell scary stories, and these tales form the film’s three anthology segments:
- Dollface: A story about a group of people staying in a house with a sinister doll.
- Prank Call: Focused on a twisted phone call that escalates into horror.
- Crimson Echo: A tale about a cursed actress in Hollywood.
Between the stories, the overarching narrative explores the dynamics of the sorority and its dark secrets.
Cast
- Bridget Marquardt as Stephanie
- Holly Madison as Stephanie’s Friend
- Lola LaBelle, Ashley Noel, and others in supporting roles
Themes
- Sorority Culture: The film satirizes and critiques the superficiality and exclusivity of sororities.
- Anthology Storytelling: Each segment features classic horror tropes like haunted dolls, prank calls gone wrong, and cursed Hollywood glamour.
- Campy Horror: With over-the-top performances and cheesy special effects, the film leans heavily into its camp aesthetic.
Reception
- Critics: The movie received mixed to negative reviews for its low-budget production, uneven storytelling, and reliance on clichés.
- Fans: Despite its flaws, it has a niche audience that enjoys campy, lighthearted horror with a retro feel.
- Horror Elements: The scares are minimal, making it more of a dark comedy than a genuinely terrifying film.
Who Might Enjoy This?
- Fans of anthology horror films like Creepshow or Tales from the Crypt.
- Viewers who appreciate campy B-movie horror.
- Followers of The Girls Next Door who want to see familiar faces in a different genre.
