Prepare yourself for another chilling installment as “Black Phone 2” is slated to hit theaters across the United States on October 17, 2025. Director Scott Derrickson, known for his work on “Doctor Strange,” is returning to the helm, co-writing the script with his frequent collaborator C. Robert Cargill. This sequel promises to delve deeper into the psychological aftermath of trauma, moving beyond simple jump scares to explore what happens *after* the fear subsides.
The film will once again feature Mason Thames as Finney and Madeleine McGraw as his sister Gwen, who are both still grappling with the terrifying events of the first movie. Ethan Hawke is set to reprise his role as the sinister Grabber, adding to the unsettling atmosphere.
Beyond the returning cast, “Black Phone 2” welcomes new faces like Isabela Merced, James Ransone, and Edi Patterson. With cinematography by Brett Jutkiewicz, the R-rated film will run for 114 minutes and is expected to premiere at festivals like Fantastic Fest and Beyond Fest before its theatrical release. No streaming window has been announced yet.
This time, the narrative expands beyond the confines of the Grabber’s basement, exploring the wider mythology surrounding his victims and the supernatural connections that transcend death. Gwen’s psychic visions are expected to play a more prominent role, linking the siblings to a chilling winter camp known as Alpine Lake, hinting that the Grabber’s malevolent influence may not have ended with his demise.
The film’s promotional campaign has embraced a retro aesthetic, with AMC Theatres releasing a special rotary phone popcorn tin that even features eerie ring sound effects, perfectly capturing the movie’s unsettling tone.
Early critical reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting an 81% score. Critics have lauded the film for its enhanced character depth and atmospheric tension. Variety described it as ‘a hypnotic extension of Derrickson’s world,’ while Bloody Disgusting hailed it as ‘a sequel that dares to go colder, slower, and deeper.’
FAQs
When is Black Phone 2 releasing?
The film opens exclusively in theaters on October 17, 2025.
Who’s in the cast this time?
Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, and Madeleine McGraw return alongside Isabela Merced and James Ransone.
Who directed the movie?
Scott Derrickson returns to direct and co-write with C. Robert Cargill.