Released on October 17, 2025, The Black Phone 2 marks a significant return to the screen for director Scott Derrickson and the eerie world of the Grabber. This sequel to the 2021 sleeper hit The Black Phone delves deeper into the supernatural, exploring themes of trauma, sibling bonds, and the haunting echoes of past horrors. While it has garnered a mix of reviews, the film’s ambition and emotional depth have sparked considerable discussion among critics, fans, and audiences alike.
Set in 1982, The Black Phone 2 picks up four years after the events of the original film. Finney Shaw (Mason Thames) and his sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) are still grappling with the traumatic experiences involving the sinister Grabber (Ethan Hawke). Gwen begins experiencing vivid nightmares that lead them to Camp Alpine Lake, a remote Christian summer camp where new supernatural threats emerge. The film introduces a more dreamlike horror, drawing comparisons to A Nightmare on Elm Street, with the Grabber reimagined as a Freddy Krueger-esque figure invading dreams.
Critics have offered a range of opinions on the sequel. The Guardian described it as “a hit horror sequel” that “lumbers toward Elm Street,” noting its attempt to extend the story but ultimately feeling overcomplicated and lacking in suspense. Conversely, Vulture commended the film for daring to be different, appreciating its unique approach to horror.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a Certified Fresh status with an 87% verified audience score, indicating a generally positive reception from viewers. However, some critics have pointed out its overcomplicated supernatural premise and excessive backstory, which detracts from the streamlined horror narrative.
The Black Phone 2 has performed well at the box office, debuting at number one with a $26.5 million opening weekend in North America, surpassing its predecessor’s opening and marking a crucial success for Blumhouse Productions. The film’s strong performance is attributed to its appeal to younger audiences, particularly Hispanic viewers.
A central theme in The Black Phone 2 is the exploration of trauma and its lingering effects. The sibling relationship between Finney and Gwen serves as the emotional core of the film, highlighting their growth and resilience in the face of recurring horrors. Director Scott Derrickson emphasized the importance of this bond, stating that the film’s “true heart” lies in the unique connection between the characters.
The film employs a grainy 8mm visual style for dream sequences, aiming to evoke a sense of nostalgia and unease. While some viewers appreciate this aesthetic choice, others feel it detracts from the suspense and feels overly self-conscious. The direction leans heavily into supernatural elements, with dream-based horror sequences drawing clear inspiration from classic ’80s horror films.
The Black Phone 2 is an ambitious sequel that expands upon the original’s premise, delving deeper into supernatural horror and emotional storytelling. While it has received a mix of reviews, its strong box office performance and positive audience reception suggest that it resonates with viewers seeking a more complex and emotionally charged horror experience. Whether it surpasses the original is subjective, but it undeniably offers a fresh and daring take on the genre.
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