Black Phone 2: An Unpolished but Chilling Sequel

In its return to the theatres on Oct. 17, 2025, “The Black Phone 2” rang in as an ambitious but rough-around-the-edges horror sequel. While the movie eagerly built upon the setting of “Black Phone 1” (2022), it fell short in other aspects, like characters, dialogue, and pacing.

“The Black Phone 2” was visually striking from the start. Director Scott Derickson used grainy, abrupt scenes to distinguish reality from chilling dream sequences that contributed to the unsettling atmosphere of the feature. Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, and Madeline McGraw returned to produce raw and compelling performances, such as when the Grabber (Ethan Hawke) divulges to Gwen (Madeline McGraw) her family’s past. The sequel emphasized the complex relationship between the Blake siblings in a touching manner, showcasing how trauma affects family. In addition, the sequel expanded the scope of the original, focusing on multiple outdoor settings in comparison to the confined basement of the first film.

While “The Black Phone 2” delivered on these stylistic and emotional facets, it was held back by its heavy-handed script. Scenes that could have been revealed naturally felt as though they were forced upon and over-explained to the audience. The pacing dragged, particularly in the first half of the movie, and the dialogue was stilted and predictable at times.

Beyond that, some of the new roles in the movie served more as fodder and a reaction to the events than fully formed characters. Even the Grabber, who imposed such a prominently sinister presence in the first film, felt diminished. He transitioned from a grounded and psychologically terrifying serial killer to a generic vengeful spirit.

For example, Miguel Mora returned as Ernesto Arellano, the younger brother of the deceased Robin Arellano in “The Black Phone 1,” and who was also played by Mora. His character lacked depth besides being characterized as “nerdy” and the younger brother of Robin, and he generally felt more like a convenient love interest for the more headstrong Gwen Blake (Madeline McGraw).

Some also found it odd that the same actor returned as a different character. “I felt like they could have had someone else,” senior Vanessa Ramirez commented. “I get it because he does look different, but it is like, what is he doing here?” she continued.

While “The Black Phone 2” did not quite reach the high standard of its original, it still delivers a satisfactorily entertaining and unnerving experience. For those looking for a spooky weekend movie, this one is a solid choice.