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Black Phone 2 Arrives in Theaters as Reviews Split Over Its Supernatural Swing

The sequel pivots to an ’80s‑tinged nightmare mode, resurrecting its villain in ghostly form to menace the Blake siblings.

Overview

  • Universal and Blumhouse launched the film in U.S. theaters in mid‑October following a September 20 world premiere at Fantastic Fest.
  • Director Scott Derrickson returns with co-writer C. Robert Cargill and original stars Mason Thames, Madeleine McGraw and Ethan Hawke.
  • The story centers on Gwen’s dream‑visions and eerie phone calls about children at the Alpine Lake winter camp, drawing her and Finney into the threat.
  • Demián Bichir joins the cast as Mando, a Mexican character who aids the protagonists while pursuing a personal mission tied to the case.
  • Early notices are divided, praising bold nightmare imagery and ’80s influences—often likened to Freddy Krueger—while faulting a move away from the first film’s intimate tone.