Black Phone 2 is a supernatural horror sequel to the 2021 hit Black Phone, once again following Finney and Gwen, the trauma-bonded siblings with extraordinary courage and psychic abilities. Set a few years after the events of the first film, the sequel explores how they grapple with lingering trauma and its consequences, especially as the terrifying presence of the Grabber looms large over their lives.

Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw return as Finney and Gwen, delivering strong performances that convincingly portray young people navigating difficult times. One of the film’s strengths lies in how seriously it treats these themes, using them as a meaningful and believable foundation for the Grabber’s return. For the most part, this approach works well.

However, the sequel occasionally stumbles in its attempt to be grander than its predecessor. Certain moments, including an odd scene involving ice skates and another few featuring a loved one of Finney and Gwen feel either out of place or over the top. These missteps and overreaches by the filmmakers, along with several supporting characters who add little to the storyline, unfortunately dilute the film’s emotional and narrative impact.

While Black Phone 2 remains an enjoyable watch, it doesn’t quite reach the effectiveness of its predecessor, and may not linger in our memory in the same way.