I Saw What You Did (1988) - Good concept, slow execution

Did I enjoy the TV movie 'I Saw What You Did?' Yeah, it was okay.  In fact, there were some very nice moments - like the concept - kind of simple really in an almost 'Hitchcock-esque' style.  Three young girls, while bored at a sleepover, play a prank phone call on a stranger.  However, they get more than they bargained for when it turns out the stranger in question is a little more on the homicidal scale than your average prank-victim.

It's a set-up for a pretty good thriller; it's only flaw is that it never seems to get going.  The first half is effectively built up.  Yes, you certainly get to know the trio of girls and you get to know a fair bit about the life of the man who is going to be the central antagonist (plus you get David Carradine thrown in there for good measure - or a pay cheque).  But it takes so long for their paths to cross - and therefore any major tension, that most of the film has gone by.

You can see what's coming a mile off in terms of the overall premise of the story, so you just want to get on to the 'high stakes' element of the film.  However, even at the midway point where the two groups interact, it all fizzles out again and everyone goes their separate ways.

It's not until literally the final act until the tension is really utilised.  Like I say, it's not a terrible movie, but I just felt it could have been better and - perhaps worse still - I really wanted it to be better and a little faster paced.  I guess there are those who will appreciate the 'slow burn' of it all and, for those, I'm glad there are those out there who could like it more for what it was.

I guess if you're in the mood for something that's 90% build-up and only a little bit 'thrilling' then this is certainly the one for you.  Just know what you're in for before you sit down.

6/10 Should probably keep you awake if Freddy Krueger was haunting your nights