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Scott Derrickson returns to helm Black Phone 2 after Joe Hill’s email — “The Grabber calls Finn from hell” — unlocked the sequel. Waiting until his young leads aged into high school, he set the story in 1982, four years later. Finn wrestles with notoriety and numbness, while Gwen, outed for her psychic gifts, faces bullying and nightmares that draw them to Alpine Lake, where The Grabber’s spirit targets her. A midfilm revelation about their mother provides the emotional spine, and Derrickson’s son Atticus supplies the score. The film opens in theaters Oct. 17.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.