I don’t often see sequels to movies that give even more depth to the original, but “Black Phone 2” (2025) did just that.
This movie introduced a new story with the same characters. It gave viewers a more in-depth look at the characters. It delved into Finney’s (Mason Thames) trauma from the first movie and how Gwen’s (Madeleine McGraw) dreams actually function and affect her.
I’ve seen too many movies where it feels like the sequel is just reusing the same plot and characters in a different setting. While “Black Phone 2” used the same characters and certain plot devices as the original, it created a unique story. The creators use suspense in this movie, and it’s even better than in the last.
Warning: spoilers ahead
The first movie focused on Finney and his time with The Grabber (Ethan Hawke), while this one focused on his sister, Gwen, and the undead Grabber. A common theme in sequels, I know; the main villain comes back to life and tortures the survivors.
“Black Phone 2” used stereotypical tropes, but in a way that felt unique. Undead antagonist, same characters but older, prophetic dreams and even a little side of cheesy romance. It was the execution of these tropes that made me like this movie.
This sequel also answered almost every question I had from the first movie. It wrapped up loose ends with a nice bloody bow. Who’s The Grabber? An old coworker of Finney and Gwen’s mom. Why did The Grabber start killing? He just does it for the love of the game. What dream made Finney and Gwen’s mom kill herself? She didn’t. There are even answers to questions I wouldn’t have thought to ask.
End of spoilers
I found this movie to be on par with the first one, but in different ways. It was gorier and had more jump scares. I think the difference in horror elements emphasizes the different emotions and characters. It sets it apart from the original; it doesn’t feel like a remake.
All in all, I really enjoyed “Black Phone 2” (2025). It was more of a stereotypical horror movie, but it still kept its unique elements.