There is an entire discourse about reboots and sequels, but, at the end of the day, the majority become a success. Black Phone 2 is such an example.
Scott Derrickson’s sequel to the hit 2021 film premiered in theaters on Oct. 17, and it was a commercial and critical success. The cast returned four years after the first film, bringing back Ethan Hawke as the terrifying Grabber, despite his death in the first entry. Following the success of the sequel, Derrickson revealed to Collider his condition to return for Black Phone 3.
To celebrate the hit horror film’s release on digital, the director also addressed a possible continuation, although Black Phone 2 brings a clear ending for Finn, Gwen, and The Grabber. “There certainly can be more,” Derrickson confirmed. “But again, there doesn’t have to be.”
The filmmaker highlighted that Black Phone 3 needs a very good story for it to work. “If there is to be more, there has to be a reason for it.” He added, “I enjoy franchises. I think I’ve seen every Halloween movie, and that’s a lot. I saw every Elm Street movie. So, part of it is the delight of going back to characters or to iconic villains that you’re interested in seeing again.”
“But for me, I’m interested in seeing more audaciously fresh takes that are surprising,” the filmmaker explained. “I think that the response to this movie, the majority of the audience loved it because it was so different.”
He also addressed some of the criticism of the new entry, explaining that, “Now, some people took issue with it or didn’t like it because it was so different, and that’s okay. I understand if you wanted to see something closer to the first film. That’s fine, but that doesn’t interest me.”
Derrickson concluded, “So, if there’s going to be a Black Phone 3, it would have to be another big pivot. Otherwise, I don’t see the point of making it.”
The Black Phone Franchise Has Been a Commercial Success
Finn (Mason Thames) and The Grabber (Ethan Hawke) in Black Phone 2.Image via Universal Pictures
The Black Phone premiered in 2021 at the Fantastic Fest, receiving a theatrical release in the U.S. on June 24, 2022, after several delays. That didn’t stop the film from finding success, grossing $161.4 million worldwide against a $18 million budget, per The Numbers. It also received thrilling reviews, with an 81% Certified Fresh score from the critics and a higher 88% from the audience.
Luckily, the sequel didn’t disappoint. While Black Phone 2 has slightly lower scores, they are still encouraging, with a Certified Fresh 72% approval from the critics and 83% from the audience. It also grossed $123.6 million worldwide against a $30 million budget.
Black Phone 2 is available to purchase on rent on all digital platforms.
Release Date
October 17, 2025
Runtime
114 Minutes
Director
Scott Derrickson
Mason Thames
Finney Blake