Black Phone 2 delivers chilling sequel as Scott Derrickson elevates horror with deeper story

Scott Derrickson’s Black Phone 2 earns praise for expanding the original’s story with emotional depth

Scott Derrickson’s The Black Phone 2 defies horror sequel expectations, delivering a chilling yet emotionally rich continuation of the 2021 hit. Returning to direct and co-write with C. Robert Cargill, Derrickson crafts a follow-up that surpasses its predecessor in maturity, emotion, and scope.

Released on October 17, 2025, the Blumhouse production stars Mason Thames, Madeleine McGraw, Ethan Hawke, Demián Bichir, and Jeremy Davies. Set four years after the events of the first film, the sequel follows Finney (Thames) and his sister Gwen (McGraw), who confront the supernatural return of The Grabber (Hawke). Gwen’s psychic visions lead them to the Alpine Lodge, a snowbound setting that expands the story beyond the confines of the original’s basement horror.

Derrickson employs creative visual storytelling — switching to Super 8 film grain during dream and vision sequences — to capture Gwen’s haunting encounters with trapped spirits. The film balances its scares with depth, showcasing Finney and Gwen as heroes defined by resilience and compassion.

The Black Phone 2 initially feels different from the first film, its shift toward the supernatural makes it “more of an evolution than a repetition.” He likens The Grabber’s transformation to iconic horror figures such as Freddy Krueger, citing Dream Warriors and New Nightmare as comparable genre milestones.

Ultimately, Venable praises The Black Phone 2 as “bigger, darker, and better,” calling it a standout horror sequel that rewards reflection and repeat viewing.