A Monster Calls

A Monster Calls has built a real following on Lionsgate+ Amazon Channels among viewers who want their sci-fi to think as hard as it looks. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Watch it for Lewis MacDougall — the performance elevates material that could easily tip into self-seriousness. Available now on Lionsgate+ Amazon Channels — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

A Monster Calls is not trying to be everything to everyone, and that focus is exactly what makes it work. A Monster Calls uses its genre premise as cover for asking bigger questions. 12-year-old Conor encounters an ancient tree monster who proceeds to help him cope with his mother's terminal illness and being bullied in school. Lewis MacDougall and Sigourney Weaver lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2016. The rules of A Monster Calls's world are consistent enough that the big swings never feel like cheating. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

For late-night viewing or a proper weekend binge, A Monster Calls fits the bill. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Lewis MacDougall's performance is the anchor the more ambitious moments need. The world-building pays off in ways you will not anticipate on a first watch.