By Ben Wright (@Iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
The Black Phone 2 is that rare kind of sequel, one that doesn’t just repeat the beats of the first film but grows with its characters. Returning to the world of Scott Derrickson’s unnerving 2021 hit, this follow-up manages to expand its mythology while staying true to what made the original so effective.
Mason Thames once again delivers a standout performance as Finney. There’s a real maturity to his work here; he carries the emotional and psychological weight of the story effortlessly. You can feel how the events of the first film have shaped him, and Thames nails that balance of fear, trauma, and determination. Madeleine McGraw, too, shines as Gwen. She’s given more to do this time around, and her presence brings a grounded emotional warmth to an otherwise cold, tense world. Ethan Hawke’s return as The Grabber (in whatever spectral form or memory you choose to interpret it) is chillingly effective. He doesn’t overplay it, instead leaning into a quietly terrifying presence that lingers in every frame in which he appears.
The film’s use of music is exceptional. Atticus Derrickson’s score and sound design work together to build tension in subtle, unsettling ways, often creeping up just when you think you’re safe. It’s not loud or obvious, but it gets under your skin, perfectly complementing Derrickson’s knack for creating an uncomfortable atmosphere.
Visually, the shift to a snow-covered setting feels like a bold but welcome change. The isolated cabins, the frozen woods, the sense of being cut off from everything. It all adds to the claustrophobia and dread. The snow becomes part of the film’s personality, both beautiful and menacing. It also makes The Black Phone 2 a surprisingly good pick for a dark festive-season watch.
Derrickson’s use of dream sequences is an interesting storytelling device. Admittedly, there may be a few too many, but they feel justified and consistent with the film’s tone. They add to the mythic, haunted texture of the story, helping bridge the supernatural and psychological elements.
At just under two hours, the pacing is spot on. The film never drags or overstays its welcome, which is a credit to both the editing and the script. It feels like a natural continuation of the first film, but more confident, more assured, and with a sense of creative maturity running through it.
That said, it’s not without its flaws. Some of the dialogue, particularly the era-appropriate slang and insults, occasionally lands awkwardly, drifting into slightly cringeworthy territory. A few composition shots also miss the mark visually, feeling a bit flat compared to the rest of the film’s strong cinematography. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise impressive production. The set design, costumes, and locations are all spot on, enhancing the authenticity and immersion.
What stands out most is how The Black Phone 2 doesn’t shy away from violence. The blood and gore are impactful but never gratuitous. They serve the story and underline its stakes. It’s gritty and brutal when it needs to be, but always with purpose.
The Black Phone 2 is a strong, atmospheric, and surprisingly mature sequel. It deepens the world of the original while finding new ground to explore, bolstered by great performances, eerie music, and a hauntingly beautiful setting. It’s confident horror filmmaking. Unsettling, stylish, and emotionally resonant.
X-Geeks 