The Phone(2007)

The Phone is a Dutch reality competition series created by Willem Brom, Beau van Erven Dorens, and Marc Bennink. Two hidden cell phones ring at random locations, and whoever answers becomes a contestant. The paired players then race to complete a series of missions for a chance to win €25,000. What sets The Phone apart is its cinematic approach—shot and paced like an action thriller rather than a typical reality show, drawing inspiration from films like Die Hard with a Vengeance. The format premiered on Dutch broadcaster AVRO in July 2007 and quickly became an international hit, selling to 52 countries worldwide. The show's innovative blend of game show tension and blockbuster storytelling earned it the Best Reality prize at the 2008 Rose d'Or ceremony.