BLACK PHONE 2 rings again and this time it’s worth answering

For me, “Black Phone 2,” a sequel to the original “Black Phone” movie, is either you love it or you don’t. 

The film brings Finn (played by Mason Thames) and Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) back into a world of nightmares, family secrets and supernatural chills. It is a sequel that not only honors the original but also builds on top of it. This time, the two siblings ventured to uncover the unsettling truth about their mother and the mysterious figure named “the Grabber.” 

I'll try my best here to not spoil the movie for you but give enough detail so you can decide whether to spend your time watching it, or not. 

From the opening moment, the film’s cinematic quality is hard to miss, with beautifully composed frames that capture both the terror and tenderness of the story. The sleepwalking scene, in particular, stands out. The transition between the dream realm and the real world was also smooth. 

The performances carry a lot of the film’s weight. Finn and Gwen feel authentic and emotionally grounded; their sibling dynamic is filled with humor, tension, and warmth. Gwen, in particular, brings a spark to the story. Her wit in the cabin scenes offers a brief but welcome relief   from the film’s darker tone. 

However, not everything in Black Phone 2 works smoothly. While the story keeps viewers engaged, the pacing occasionally drags, especially in the middle act. Some scenes linger longer than necessary, slightly dulling the sharp tension built early on. The plot also leans heavily on dream sequences, which, while visually stunning, can feel repetitive at times and risk confusing the audience rather than deepening the mystery. 

The horror elements remain effective: The first cabin scene is a genuine nail-biter, packed with well-timed jump scares and an unsettling atmosphere. Yet, a few of the later scares feel predictable for seasoned horror fans, relying on familiar tropes instead of fresh ideas. 

That said, the emotional core of the movie is its greatest strength. The bond between Finn and Gwen is heartfelt, contrasting with the disturbing relationship between the Grabber and his brother – a dynamic fueled by guilt, revenge, and obsession. The film even weaves in subtle religious undertones, exploring the idea of faith, forgiveness, and inner conflict without becoming preachy. 

Ultimately, Black Phone 2 succeeds as a chilling, emotional follow-up that deepens the original story while carving out its own identity. Uneven pacing and a few predictable moments keep it from reaching perfection. Still, overall, I would rate it 4 out of 5 stars. I would recommend to those viewers that already liked the first movie to definitely give it a watch.