976-EVIL

Cousins Leonard "Spike" Johnson and Hoax Arthur Wilmoth are teenagers who live with Hoax's overtly religious and domineering mother, Lucy Wilmoth. While Spike is the neighborhood motorcycle bad boy, Hoax is an introverted nerd. Even though Spike genuinely cares for his cousin and protects him from bullies, Hoax is filled with resentment that he cannot stand up for himself or succeed romantically (both of which Spike does effortlessly).

Both boys stumble upon 976-EVIL, which, on the surface, is just a novelty phone line that offers creepy-themed fortunes for a few dollars. However, the line is actually used by Satan to subtly corrupt mortals into his bidding. Spike loses interest in the line quickly, but Hoax soon discovers the true nature of the line and uses it to get revenge on everyone who has wronged him.

Soon, Hoax's spirit is almost entirely consumed by Satan, who possesses Hoax to cause death and destruction, culminating in an opening to Hell appearing before their house. Spike confronts Hoax, but is quickly overpowered. In a desperate last ploy, he calls earnestly to his cousin, reminding him of the plans they had to take a vacation that summer.

Hoax's fleeting soul briefly resurfaces, realizes his horrible mistake, and embraces Spike, begging for help. Spike, realizing Hoax is lost and cannot be separated from the demonic presence, reluctantly throws him into the pit of Hell.

Hoax becomes possessed by Satan and wreaks havoc; his cousin Spike confronts him, ultimately throwing Hoax into a pit to Hell, sealing his fate.

The ending sees Spike forced to betray his cousin, sacrificing Hoax to stop the evil power unleashed by the phone line. It lands as a dark commentary on temptation and the cost of unchecked resentment, blending supernatural horror with a tragic family showdown that underscores the film’s cautionary tone.