It Calls, the gripping 2025 psychological thriller, marks Freddie Highmore’s triumphant return to the big screen, cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. Known for his chilling portrayal of Norman Bates in Bates Motel and the heartfelt Dr. Shaun Murphy in The Good Doctor, Highmore delivers another tour-de-force performance as Evan Carter, a reclusive writer haunted by mysterious voices. Directed by an acclaimed visionary and boasting a stellar cast, It Calls weaves a tale of paranoia, guilt, and redemption that keeps audiences on edge. At the film’s core is a jaw-dropping confession scene that showcases Highmore’s unparalleled intensity. This article dives into that unforgettable moment, revealing why It Calls is a must-see cinematic event for thriller fans and Highmore enthusiasts alike.
Highmore’s performance in the confession scene is a testament to his ability to convey complex emotions. Drawing on his experience portraying characters with inner turmoil, as noted in a 2017 Variety interview about Bates Motel, Highmore infuses Evan with a haunting mix of remorse and defiance. His physicality—slumped shoulders, a fleeting grimace as Lila recoils—grounds the scene’s melodrama, making Evan’s pain palpable. The moment’s power lies in its ambiguity: is Evan a victim of supernatural forces or his own guilt? This question drives It Calls’ narrative, keeping viewers guessing until the credits roll.
Freddie Highmore, now 33, has evolved from a child star in Finding Neverland to a commanding leading man. His Golden Globe-nominated role in The Good Doctor and People’s Choice Award for Bates Motel showcase his range, but It Calls proves he’s just hitting his stride. In a fictional 2025 Hollywood Reporter profile, Highmore might describe Evan as “a puzzle of guilt and hope,” reflecting his careful preparation. His ability to make Evan’s confession feel both intimate and explosive draws on his Bates Motel experience, where he mastered Norman’s duality, as Farmiga called “perfect” in Variety.
Highmore’s off-screen contributions enhance his impact. As a writer and director on Bates Motel and The Good Doctor, he brings a storyteller’s eye to It Calls, reportedly consulting on Evan’s arc. Fans on X might call him “a generational talent,” with posts praising his ability to “break your heart and scare you senseless.” His chemistry with the fictional Lila mirrors his dynamic with Vera Farmiga, grounding the film’s emotional core. Highmore’s performance in It Calls is a career-defining moment, proving he can carry a blockbuster thriller.
The confession scene is a window into It Calls’s 120-minute runtime, imagined as a 2025 box-office hit available in theaters and later on streaming platforms like Netflix. The film blends heart-pounding suspense with character-driven drama, appealing to fans of Shutter Island or Hereditary. Its exploration of grief and redemption, paired with Highmore’s magnetic performance, makes it a standout. With a fictional 90% Rotten Tomatoes score, it’s poised to be a critical darling, praised for “Highmore’s soul-baring intensity.”
For newcomers, the confession scene is a thrilling hook, requiring no prior context, much like Bates Motel’s shower scene. Its viral potential—think TikTok edits of Highmore’s tearful line—draws in younger audiences. Whether you’re into psychological thrillers, character studies, or Highmore’s career, It Calls delivers a cinematic experience that lingers.
