Black Phone 2 is a supernatural horror sequel directed by Scott Derrickson, co-written by Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill, and produced by Jason Blum. It is the follow-up to The Black Phone (2021), itself adapted from a short story by Joe Hill. The film brings back Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, Madeleine McGraw, and Jeremy Davies. Along with new cast members such as Demián Bichir, Miguel Mora, Arianna Rivas, and others. The runtime is approximately 114 minutes, with English as the primary language.
Plot & Storyline
Set four years after the events of the first film, Black Phone 2 explores the continued psychological, supernatural, and emotional trauma caused by “The Grabber”. The chilling antagonist played by Ethan Hawke. The main focus shifts to Gwen, the younger sister of Finney (Mason Thames), who survived The Grabber’s abduction in the prior movie. Gwen begins to experience terrifying visions and dream calls from the mysterious black phone. These visions show children being stalked at a winter camp known as Alpine Lake. Finney, now older and grappling with the legacy of his trauma, must accompany Gwen to this remote camp to unravel the mystery. Along the way, they discover that the horrors they’re facing are more deeply tied to their family’s past than they ever realized.
Themes & Atmosphere
The movie leans heavily into horror tropes of supernatural menace, trauma, and the boundary between dreams and reality.Critics note that in Black Phone 2, The Grabber takes on characteristics akin to classic horror villains like Freddy Krueger. In particular, he becomes a presence that haunts both sleeping and waking life. Moreover, the sequel introduces a strong atmospheric element, featuring a snowbound camp, dream sequences, visions, and an ever-present sense of dread. At the same time, the filmmakers employ visual and thematic callbacks to the first film. However, they also expand the mythos, making evil feel less confined and more pervasive.
Cast & Characters
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Finney (Mason Thames) returns as the only known survivor of The Grabber, now older and dealing with lasting trauma.
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Gwen (Madeleine McGraw), his younger sister, becomes the focal point of the sequel’s mystery and horror, driven by her dream calls and visions.
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The Grabber (Ethan Hawke) returns in a more supernatural, powerful iteration, menacing both siblings.
- Terrence Blake (Jeremy Davies), the father of Finney and Gwen, struggles with his own demons while being pulled back into the nightmare surrounding his family.
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Ernesto Arellano (Miguel Cazarez Mora), Armando (Demián Bichir),Mustang (Arianna Rivas) and other supporting casts.
Production & Release
Filming began in late 2024 in Toronto. The sequel was originally slated for release in June but was delayed to October 17, 2025, to align with the Halloween horror season. The delay also allowed more time for post-production and promotional buildup. The film had its premiere at Fantastic Fest on September 20, 2025.
Early reviews are largely positive. Critics praise its visuals, especially the dream-logic scenes and surreal atmosphere. Many say it surpasses the original in scale and ambition. Some criticism focuses on parts that feel expository, or where slower pacing dampens tension. The shift from the claustrophobia of the first film to larger settings (winter camp, snowy landscapes) is seen as bold.
