“The Black Phone” sequel has officially started filming, delighting horror fans who were captivated by the original 2021 film. Returning director Scott Derrickson and co-writer C. Robert Cargill reunite to bring back the eerie world they first crafted, one that earned a stunning $161.4 million worldwide on a modest $16-18 million budget.
Ethan Hawke is set to reprise his unsettling role as “The Grabber,” the terrifying villain at the heart of the original, joined once more by Mason Thames as Finney, Madeleine McGraw as Gwen, Jeremy Davies as Terrence, and Miguel Mora as Robin. The story will also introduce a new face: Demián Bichir, an exciting addition whose role is still undisclosed.
For those unfamiliar with the first film, it centers on Finney Shaw, a shy teenager abducted by a sadistic killer and held in a soundproof basement. Despite the grim setting, Finney finds a lifeline in a disconnected phone, which mysteriously connects him with the voices of the killer's previous victims. These spectral allies guide him in a chilling battle for survival.
While the plot of the sequel remains closely guarded, fans can expect the same psychological tension and supernatural intrigue. Scheduled for an October 17, 2025, release by Universal Pictures, the sequel has raised high expectations. Considering the success of the first installment, the production team faces the challenge of delivering a follow-up that balances fresh scares with the spirit of the original.
It's exciting to see director Scott Derrickson and actor Ethan Hawke return to “The Black Phone” series, given their contributions to the chilling atmosphere of the original film. The choice to expand on this story feels promising, especially with the addition of Demián Bichir, an actor known for his versatility and depth. However, the challenge will be maintaining the suspenseful edge that made the first movie stand out. Will the new plot developments resonate as strongly with audiences, or could the sequel risk rehashing familiar themes? Horror fans will surely be on edge until more details emerge. Overall, this sequel has the potential to deepen the franchise's unique take on supernatural horror, especially if it builds meaningfully on the characters and themes from the first film.
Are you looking forward to the next chapter in “The Black Phone” series? What do you think will make this sequel stand out from the original?