A Masterclass in Suspense: The Black Phone 2 Delivers on Its Promise (2025 – 9.5/10) – CCN

A Masterclass in Suspense: The Black Phone 2 Delivers on Its Promise (2025 – 9.5/10)

From its chilling opening moments to its gut-wrenching climax, “The Black Phone 2” doesn’t just meet the impossibly high bar set by its predecessor; it shatters it. This is not merely a sequel; it’s an evolution, a deeper dive into the fractured psyche of Finney Blake and a terrifying expansion of the malevolent forces that stalk him. Director Scott Derrickson has once again proven his mastery of atmospheric horror, crafting a film that is as emotionally resonant as it is viscerally terrifying.

Miguel Mora, Madeleine McGraw, and Mason Thames in Black Phone 2 (IMDB)

What immediately sets “The Black Phone 2” apart is its unwavering commitment to character. Ethan Hawke returns as The Grabber, and while his physical presence is thankfully limited this time around, his shadow looms larger than ever. His performance is a masterclass in unsettling nuance, hinting at the depths of his depravity without ever resorting to cheap theatrics. But the true revelation is again Mason Thames as Finney. He carries the weight of the narrative with an astonishing maturity, portraying a young boy grappling with trauma, survivor’s guilt, and an almost supernatural resilience. His internal struggle is palpable, making every moment of peril that much more impactful. Madeleine McGraw as Gwen also shines, her fierce protectiveness and burgeoning psychic abilities adding crucial emotional stakes.

Madeleine McGraw and Mason Thames in Black Phone 2 (IMDB)

The film bravely explores new thematic territory, delving into the lingering psychological scars of abuse and the enduring power of familial bonds. While the first film was a claustrophobic nightmare confined to a basement, “The Black Phone 2” allows audiences a glimpse into the wider world affected by The Grabber’s reign of terror. This broader scope, however, never sacrifices the intimate dread that made the original so effective. Derrickson expertly balances moments of quiet, unsettling dread with sudden, brutal bursts of terror. The sound design is, once again, a character in itself, each creak of the floorboards and whisper from the titular black phone sending shivers down your spine.

Ethan Hawke and Mason Thames in Black Phone 2 (IMDB)

The screenplay is a tight, well-paced marvel. It expands upon the lore established in the first film without overstating its hand, introducing new supernatural elements that feel organic and unnerving. The titular black phone, of course, remains a potent conduit for both terror and hope, and its role in this installment is both ingenious and deeply disturbing. There are moments that will make you gasp, moments that will make you want to look away, and crucially, moments that will lodge themselves in your mind long after the credits roll.

Crucially, “The Black Phone 2” understands that true horror lies not just in jump scares, but in the psychological torment of its characters. The film doesn’t shy away from the emotional fallout of Finney’s experiences, and it’s this emotional core that elevates it beyond a simple genre exercise. The stakes feel incredibly high, and the sense of vulnerability is almost unbearable at times.

While a perfect 10/10 is an elusive beast, “The Black Phone 2” comes agonizingly close. This is intelligent, terrifying, and deeply moving horror filmmaking at its finest. If you were captivated by the first film, prepare to be enthralled. If you’re new to this chilling universe, buckle up – you’re in for an unforgettable ride.

(Available now to buy or rent)