The sequel to Black Phone is here, but does it live up to the original? In Black Phone 2, the notorious serial killer known as The Grabber makes a return, though some believe the dead should stay buried.
While the first film explored a haunting sibling bond, this sequel struggles to find its footing. We follow the characters of Gwen and Finn, played by Madeleine McGraw and Mason Thames. Unfortunately, they don’t bring much to the table. Finn leans against walls, lost in thought, while Gwen has developed quite a sharp tongue but lacks depth.
The story also introduces Ernesto, a character who has his own ties to The Grabber’s dark past. As he pursues a connection with Gwen, we’re left wondering if that subplot will add any excitement. Instead, it feels like yet another repeated cycle of what we’ve seen before.
This installment also throws in a dash of faith—something the horror genre has leaned on recently, thanks to hits like The Conjuring. We meet a camp owner who disregards the eerie disappearances of children at his camp. His odd motto? “Devil’s Lettuce is not welcome in this place of God.” While such lines might aim for humor, they land flat in the overarching narrative.
The film’s director, Scott Derrickson, faced high expectations, but Black Phone 2 doesn’t quite deliver. Critics are divided, with many pointing out that the film lacks the intensity and emotional connection that made the first movie captivating. Recent audience reviews reflect a general disappointment, with many viewers expressing that the film feels repetitive and lacks new thrills.
In a world where audiences crave originality, stats show horror sequels often falter. A survey indicated that nearly 60% of horror fans prefer standalone films, emphasizing the challenge sequels face in capturing their attention. As we dive deeper into 2023, the question remains: can filmmakers break the cycle and offer fresh perspectives in horror?
In the end, Black Phone 2 offers a familiar yet unexciting journey, ultimately making viewers wish for a pause on the franchise. While some films can skillfully revitalize a story, this sequel appears stuck in the shadows of its predecessor. In the realm of horror, sometimes, letting the past stay dead might be the best move.
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