The Black Phone 2 is a gripping supernatural horror sequel that takes about 25 minutes to hook you fully, but once it does, it doesn’t let go. Scott Derrickson returns with a chilling continuation that deepens the emotional and psychological trauma of its characters while expanding the mythology of the Grabber.

This time, Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) is haunted by disturbing dreams and eerie phone calls that lead her and her brother Finn (Mason Thames) to a mysterious winter camp. Their investigation soon reveals that the Grabber — now even more powerful in death — may still have unfinished business.

The film borrows influence from A Nightmare on Elm Street, blurring the line between dreams and reality with real-world consequences. What makes The Black Phone 2 stand out are its dream sequences. They look like old, damaged film — grainy, scratched, and crackling. It’s a clever stylistic choice that tells us we’ve entered a dream while adding a nostalgic horror texture that feels raw, surreal, and unique to this specific film. Even the transition from

What truly elevates The Black Phone 2 is its message. Finn, still scarred from his abduction in the first film, now struggles with addiction as a coping mechanism. His trauma is believable, and the story wisely portrays how bottling up pain can lead to destructive habits. A pivotal line — “You’re strong enough to kill the Grabber, but you have to be strong enough to let it go” — transforms the film from a standard horror sequel into a surprisingly profound exploration of healing and forgiveness.

Performances are strong across the board, with McGraw and Thames displaying heartfelt sibling chemistry that grounds the supernatural terror in emotional truth. Even Gwen’s romantic subplot, while light, adds warmth to the darker themes.

Technically, the film excels. The music and cinematography amplify tension, and the editing of the dream sequences makes them among the most original and unsettling horror moments of the year.

The Black Phone 2 is both a chilling ghost story and a meaningful reflection on trauma, recovery, and the ghosts we carry within.