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Fans who adored Scott Derrickson’s movie released in 2022 are eagerly waiting for the theater release of its sequel later this year. The original film, which started this surprising franchise, is often praised as one of the top and distinctive horror films of the 2020s, so The Black Phone 2 faces a significant challenge to meet expectations. Although details about the sequel are still scarce, the bits we know have already sparked excitement among fans, especially with the promise of a trailer. The majority of the original cast and crew will return, and the maturation of the characters has sparked numerous intriguing story theories from viewers. Additionally, knowing that Scott Derrickson is back as director means the project is being handled by someone genuinely invested in it, rather than just for financial gain.

As I eagerly wait alongside fellow fans, I can hardly contain my excitement for the upcoming sequel. With no concrete details or even a sneak peek yet, we’re left on tenterhooks, breath bated in suspense. In the interim, it seems like the ideal moment for those unacquainted with the series to immerse themselves in all the intricacies that have every horror enthusiast bursting with anticipation.

Most of the Original Cast and Crew Are Returning

The Film Will Mark Ethan Hawke and Scott Derrickson’s Third Collaboration Together

Every Confirmed Cast Member Returning for The Black Phone 2Role
Mason ThamesFinney
Madeline McGrawGwen
Ethan HawkeThe Grabber
Jeremy DaviesTerrence
Miguel MoraRobin

Enthusiasts who appreciated the acting and character interactions in the initial movie are undoubtedly thrilled to learn that many of the same cast members will appear in the sequel. The year 2025 seems poised for actor Mason Thames, as he’s slated to play Hiccup in Dreamworks’ live-action adaptation, but also confirmed to resume his role as Finney Blake from the original production. Co-star Madeline McGraw is set to return with him, portraying his psychic sister, Gwen, while Jeremy Davies will reprise his role as their father, Terrence. There’s been confirmation that Ethan Hawke will be back as the chilling character known as the “Grabber,” which has sparked curiosity about the storyline that would necessitate such a dramatic return. Miguel Mora, who portrayed one of Finney’s friends and the Grabber’s tragic victim, Robin, is also set to reappear, possibly in a dream sequence, vision, or any other supernatural manner.

Absolutely, a movie’s cast can only shine as much as the script and direction permit. Given that director Scott Derrickson is back at the helm, together with his longtime writing partner C. Robert Cargill, viewers can anticipate similar doses of excitement, suspense, and an unexpected dose of emotion. The idea that a sequel would be made was something many fans thought unlikely, given the finality of its previous ending. However, the fact that both Derrickson and Cargill have returned suggests that this sequel will indeed stand out from its predecessor. As previously mentioned, Derrickson stated that he wouldn’t make a sequel unless it offered something fresh and distinct from the original, pointing to the “more intricate script” as evidence that it won’t simply retell the first film’s story.

CinemaCon Premiered a Trailer Revealing Certain Plot Details

The Trailer Has Shown That The Film’s Supernatural Elements Will Explain the Grabber’s Return

In the initial “Black Phone” movie, Finney successfully defeated the Grabber, escaped capture, reunited with Gwen following her guidance to the second house where the Grabber had buried his victims, and returned to school with newfound confidence the next day. With the demise of the Grabber, it seemed the story had reached its end; however, a sneak peek at the sequel shown at this year’s CinemaCon hinted at more thrilling developments. Based on the information released so far, unlike many sequels, it seems that the sequel has ingeniously found a method to resurrect the original antagonist as an even more terrifying and supernatural adversary. An article provided a comprehensive account of what the trailer’s footage suggested, and from this description, it appears that the Grabber will return as a spectral presence tormenting Gwen’s visions and menacing Finney from beyond the grave, much like the character Freddy Krueger.

Upon revisiting the initial movie, there are a couple of unresolved storylines that could potentially be deepened. One such character who may undergo development is Finney’s and Gwen’s father, Terrence. His emotional breakdown and plea for forgiveness in the finale, following his abusive behavior due to alcoholism, hints at potential growth for this character. Director Derrickson previously expressed interest in Terrence’s redemption, suggesting that it could be a key aspect of future storytelling. Similarly, the fans’ speculation about Gwen’s psychic powers being utilized further appears valid, given her connection to the Grabber creature.

Joe Hill Came Up with the Sequel’s Story

Thanks to Hill, Derrickson Found the Inspiration to Move Forward With Another Installment

Upcoming Joe Hill Film Adaptations
Basketful of Heads
Twittering from the Circus of the Dead
Faun
The Fireman

Lately, Derrickson has hinted at something intriguing, suggesting that “the upcoming movie can be seen as a high school coming-of-age story much like the first was a middle school one.” However, it’s important to note that despite the success of ‘The Black Phone’, neither Derrickson nor Cargill had any plans for a sequel. That changed when a particular individual presented Derrickson with an enticing story idea, which was too compelling to refuse, given its connection to the man who played a significant role in the first film’s creation. The original short story author, Joe Hill, who also served as one of the film’s executive producers, proposed a sequel concept that Derrickson is now developing. This news has sparked renewed hope for those initially skeptical about the continuation of ‘The Black Phone’ storyline. After all, who could be more qualified to decide if a sequel is feasible than the author who penned the original tale?

Similar to Stephen King, the renowned Joe Hill, has been a key contributor to some outstanding horror narratives in recent times. His involvement in the creation of the story for the sequel, coupled with his significant influence in launching it, makes it all the more enticing.

It’s Not the First Sequel That Has Been Made To The Black Phone

Derrickson and Cargill Worked a Piece of Connective Tissue Into Their Segment for V/H/S/85

In the case of “The Black Phone 2”, it’s not just a continuation of the story from the first movie, but rather the third time that directors Derrickson and Cargill have revisited this universe. The horror anthology film, titled “V/H/S/85“, contains a segment named “Dreamkill”, which acts as a self-contained spin-off connected to “The Black Phone”. Instead of focusing on the characters Finney and Gwen, this segment centers around their cousin, Gunther (portrayed by Derrickson’s son, Dashiell). In this storyline, Gunther is questioned by police regarding a string of murders. It’s later revealed that he possesses similar psychic abilities as Gwen, which he uses in an effort to assist the authorities in finding the murderer.

It seems that Gunther won’t participate in “The Black Phone 2”, and it’s highly possible that the sequel will not relate to “Dreamkill’s” narrative in any way. However, as a self-contained short film, it’s one of the finest segments of V/H/S/85 and is definitely worth watching for those eager to explore more of Derrickson’s supernatural universe.

When Will The Black Phone 2 Be Released?

The Film Will Be Hitting Theaters Just In Time For Spooky Season

The month of October promises an interesting assortment of theater films such as “Mortal Kombat II”, “Tron: Ares”, and the Michael Jackson biopic, but except for Chris Stuckmann’s “Shelby Oaks”, there aren’t many horror movies that are eagerly anticipated. This is unexpected, given that Halloween season is typically when horror films thrive to boost their success. However, this lack of competition could benefit “The Black Phone 2”, attracting fans seeking a horror experience for Halloween. Similar to its predecessor, the sequel’s release date has been adjusted from early February to a summer release in 2022 and now to October 17, 2022.

Despite the initial film’s triumph at the box office during its summer debut, releasing the sequel in October is undeniably a wiser choice. This timing is not only more suitable for the season but also allows it to steer clear of stiff competition from much-anticipated summer blockbusters like Superman and The Fantastic Four: The First Steps. Although waiting can be tough, the tantalizing details about The Black Phone 2 have left fans confident that their wait will prove worthwhile when October rolls around.

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2025-05-22 18:40