Death is just the beginning in Scott Derrickson’s chilling horror universe—and now, the Grabber is back to prove it. If you thought Ethan Hawke’s terrifying villain met his end in The Black Phone, think again. In Black Phone 2, Derrickson and co-writer C. Robert Cargill defy expectations by resurrecting the Grabber, turning what seemed like a straightforward survival story into a supernatural saga. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this sequel a genius expansion of the original’s eerie world, or a forced attempt to milk a franchise? Let’s dive in.
After the surprise success of the first film—a gripping adaptation of Joe Hill’s short story—fans were left scratching their heads when a sequel was announced. How could a story with such a definitive ending justify a follow-up? Derrickson and Cargill’s answer? Lean into the supernatural. In Black Phone 2, the Grabber returns from the grave, hell-bent on revenge against Finney Blake (Mason Thames) and his sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw). This time, the siblings are led to Alpine Lake, a Christian youth camp hiding dark secrets that unravel in ways you’ll never see coming. It’s a bold move, but does it pay off?
The film aims to elevate the Grabber to Freddy Krueger-level icon status, but does he truly earn his place in the horror hall of fame? Critics are split. While some, like Rafael Motamayor of /Film, praise it as a fantastic sequel on par with Dream Warriors, others argue the Grabber lacks the lasting impact of his slasher predecessors. Still, with a $105 million box office haul against a $30 million budget, it’s clear audiences are intrigued. And this is the part most people miss: Universal’s decision to release the film on PVOD platforms like Prime Video and YouTube just weeks after its theatrical debut. Is this a smart move to capitalize on streaming demand, or a shortsighted decision that undermines its cinematic run?
As of November 4, 2025, you can watch Black Phone 2 from the comfort of your home for a $19.99 rental or $24.99 purchase. Physical media fans, however, will need to wait until December 23, 2025, for the 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, or DVD release. The digital version comes packed with bonus features, including deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and a director’s commentary—though availability varies by retailer. Pro tip: If you’re new to the series, Fandango at Home offers a bundle deal for both films for just $29.99, a steal for horror enthusiasts.
But here’s the real question: Is Black Phone 2 a worthy successor, or a missed opportunity? Does the Grabber deserve his place among horror legends, or is he just another forgettable villain? Let us know in the comments—we’re dying to hear your take!
