Black Phone 2: A Supernatural Horror Sequel Review

AUSTIN, Texas — The horror sequel, Black Phone 2, made its debut at Fantastic Fest on October 17, 2025. Directed by Scott Derrickson, the film continues the story of Finn (Mason Thames) and his sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) as they confront the Grabber, a killer who now transcends human constraints.

Following the events of the first film, where Finn escapes the clutches of the Grabber, this sequel takes a supernatural turn. Gwen, endowed with psychic abilities, finds herself targeted by the Grabber’s wraith. The siblings meet again at an alpine Christian camp while snowed in, setting the stage for new encounters with their old tormentor.

Critics noted a tonal shift from the original. The Grabber, played by Ethan Hawke, lacks the humorous flair of his prior appearance, presenting a more serious threat. The film attempts to weave in themes of faith and the battle between good and evil, moving through spiritual territory in contrast to the first installment’s more grounded horror.

The narrative opens with an exploration of the siblings’ emotional struggles and traumas since their initial encounter with the Grabber. Derrickson expands the scope of the story through Gwen’s visions of past victims, incorporating elements of supernatural horror alongside family drama. The grainy Super 8 texture used during dream sequences aims to create a unique visual language.

While Hawke’s presence is commanding, much of the horror relies on visuals rather than genuine scares. Despite the atmospheric setting, the film has received mixed reviews for its convoluted plot and heavy-handed religious motifs that seemed unwarranted.

At approximately 114 minutes long, Black Phone 2 raises questions about its length and pacing. Some audiences may enjoy its deeper themes and character development, while others may find it overly drawn-out. In the end, the film succeeds in offering a new layer to the Black Phone universe but does not escape the shadows of its predecessor.