Pop Culture Happy Hour Black Phone 2 And What’s Making Us Happy
Oct 17, 2025
In this discussion, Jordan Cruciola, a writer, producer, and host of the podcast Feeling Seen, dives into the chilling aspects of Black Phone 2, where Ethan Hawke's Grabber returns to haunt survivors Finn and Gwen. The conversation touches on the film's atmospheric shift from claustrophobia to a snowy camp setting, and how it draws influences from classic horror like Nightmare on Elm Street. Jordan articulates why he finds the sequel superior, praising its character dynamics and eerie performances, while also offering clever recommendations for listeners.
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Sequel Deepens Supernatural Thread
- Black Phone 2 returns to the Grabber mythos four years later with Finn and psychic sister Gwen at its center.
- The sequel reintegrates supernatural elements more fully into the story than the first film.
Visuals And Setting Elevate Tone
- Kristen liked the film's visual style and that the snowy camp replaced basement claustrophobia.
- She felt the supernatural was better folded into the narrative, making it more cohesive.
Sequel Embraces Dream Horror
- Jordan calls this film 'Black Phone Dream Warriors' for fully entering dream-state horror.
- She sees the sequel as superior, with the supernatural meshing of living and dead and stronger teen performances.
