Typically, horror movie sequels aren’t great. However, despite the criticism of the Black Phone 2, I argue that it was pretty damn good.
I immediately fell in love with the atmosphere of this film. During Gwen’s dream sequences, an actual film stock was used to create a grainy, retro look.
The setting is winter at a snow-covered camp. This bright, white backdrop made it visually distinct from horror films that commonly rely on darkness.
Why This Movie Was a Success:
This film connected the dots in the first movie that were never fully explained, such as Gwen’s psychic abilities, Finney’s abduction story, and what happened to their mother.
It expanded the previous movie in a way that felt both familiar and fresh. I could visibly see how Finney’s trauma changed him as a person and his relationship with his sister, Gwen. They became the only people who truly understood each other.
Speaking of Gwen, her role was more prominent, which I surprisingly really enjoyed. Throughout the film, her psychic abilities evolved, and she was able to communicate within her dreams instead of simply having visions. These changes provided a more complex story and striking visuals compared to the first movie.
A few more things worth mentioning: the cinematography and music improved, Ethan Hawke’s performance of The Grabber was compelling, and there was no holding back when it came to violence and gore.
Overall, I did genuinely love this movie, especially because of the characters in it. I was delighted to receive further information on their backstories (I do miss Vance Hopper, though. I don’t care if he only had five minutes of screen time.) Also, I absolutely loved that Miguel Mora was brought back to play Robin Arellano’s brother, Ernesto.
Criticism:
Personally, I don’t have much criticism to share, but there certainly were some poor dialogue moments (especially that one cringe line from Ernesto. If you know, you know.)
Although their screentime was brief, many fan-favorites from the first film came from the provided backstories on the dead boys. In contrast, the sequel opts for shock factors instead. This isn’t a bad thing, but the ending would’ve been more impactful if the ghost boys’ personalities were shown.
One common complaint is that this film is a ripoff of A Nightmare on Elm Street. I understand why since The Grabber comes back as a supernatural being that attacks the protagonists in their dreams. Honestly, though, I don’t mind that. The way this film was executed wasn’t cheesy, so I don’t think it’s a problem.
Overall, I see a lot of people flaming this movie for its religious tones, poor dialogue, lack of humor, no deaths, etc. I see where the hate is coming from, but I genuinely enjoyed this film so much.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, of course. If you have one on this film, whether you agree or disagree, I’d love to hear it!
Leave a comment below about it or any other horror related things you’d like to see in future columns!
