Mason Thames plays an easily-intimidated 13 year old who has to grow a pair when he’s kidnapped by the a mysterious man in a van (Ethan Hawke telegraphing his evil and rational side thru a mask). While trapped in the inevitable basement, the titular telly becomes the kid’s lifeline. Director Scott Derrickson (Dr. Strange, Sinister, Deliver Us from Evil) is in familiar territory, but he’s honed his style for a more subdued approach. There are 1 or 2 outright jump scares. Otherwise, the tension builds slowly, as the mystery and menace stay steady. This isn’t a great thriller, but it’s certainly a smart and enjoyable addition to the genre. 
(4 / 5)
