Dir. Scott Derrickson | Now Streaming On: Prime | Rating: 5/5

As one of the most anticipated horror films of 2022, The Black Phone has had a lot of buzz since the first trailer. It can be a bit nerve wracking when a film gets so much buzz before it hits theaters, almost like we’re being set up for disappointment. However, The Black Phone holds true to its promise and delivers one of the most stunning horror releases in recent years. ⁠
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Based on the short story of the same name by Joe Hill, TBP oozes with a genuine and nostalgic late 70s vibe from the imagery and dialogue. As a member of the King literary dynasty, Joe Hill had huge shoes to fill with this theatrical release, especially after the commercial success of It. Though the child actors can falter a bit throughout the script, the sheer suspense keeps you grounded in this story for the entire 103 minute runtime. ⁠
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I will say that TBP does skew heavily on the crime thriller side of the fence rather than the horror one. One of the critiques I’ve seen on this film so far is that it doesn’t deliver on the “horror” genre expectations. The gore and jumpscares are mild in comparison to most contemporary films. What sells the true horror of The Grabber for me is the ambiguity of what ISN’T said and done. There is this horribly dark sexual undertone between The Grabber and Finney. It is so overpowering it feels as if we are trapped in the basement too, watching and waiting for the worst to happen. Not to mention, The Grabber’s masks are bizarre and chilling, but we should expect nothing less from pieces by the renowned Tom Savini. ⁠
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As a King fan, this film was filled with so many easter eggs to the King literary universe. From Gwen’s clairvoyance (did someone say the Shine?) to black balloons (Pennywise who?),TBP is riddled with tiny details that will appeal to frequent flyers of this family’s work. I’d recommend this to horror newbies and vets alike. Definitely 2022’s must see. ⁠
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Know Before You Watch: Features blood, death. ⁠