The Telephone Book

Synopsis

The Telephone Book is a provocative and experimental film that follows the journey of Alice, a young woman who becomes infatuated with a mysterious man's voice on the telephone. As her obsession grows, Alice embarks on a surreal exploration into the world of phone sex and erotic connections. The film delves into themes of desire, loneliness, and the boundaries between reality and fantasy. Directed by Nelson Lyon, The Telephone Book offers a unique blend of comedy, satire, and social commentary, pushing the boundaries of conventional filmmaking of its time. With its bold and controversial content, the film challenges societal norms and invites viewers to question the nature of human relationships and desires.

Cast

• 

  Sarah Kennedy

  Alice

• Norman Rose

  Mr. Smith

• James Harder

  Obscene Caller

• 

  Jill Clayburgh

  Eyemask

• 

  Ondine

  Narrator

• 

  Barry Morse

  Har Poon

Reviews

The Telephone Book has received mixed reactions from critics and audiences alike. While some praised its avant-garde style and thought-provoking narrative, others found the film's explicit content and unconventional storytelling to be off-putting. Variety described it as 'a bold and bizarre exploration of human intimacy in the digital age' giving it a rating of 3.5/5. On the other hand, Roger Ebert criticized the film for its gratuitous nature, stating that 'The Telephone Book fails to deliver a cohesive message despite its intriguing premise'. Rotten Tomatoes audience score stands at 62% based on user reviews. Despite the polarizing opinions, the film has garnered a cult following over the years, with viewers appreciating its daring approach to taboo subjects and unconventional storytelling.