The horror genre is alive and well! Black Phone 2, the chilling sequel from writer-director Scott Derrickson and co-writer C. Robert Cargill, has clawed its way to the top of the Halloween weekend box office, proving that audiences still crave a good scare. With a domestic haul of $8.3 million, it's a testament to the film's gripping narrative and the enduring appeal of the horror genre.
Black Phone 2 By The Numbers
The film's success is undeniable. Currently, Black Phone 2 has raked in $61.77 million in North America and $43.25 million internationally, totaling a worldwide gross of $105 million. This is particularly impressive when you consider the sequel's budget of $30 million, positioning it well for significant profits and a healthy life on home entertainment platforms. The original The Black Phone, released in 2021, topped $161 million, proving the franchise's strong appeal.
But here's where it gets interesting: Black Phone 2 outmaneuvered the competition, including Regretting You, which suffered from poor reviews and a lack of audience enthusiasm. Both films star Mason Thames, adding another layer of intrigue as he stars in the top two films at the box office.
Horror's Reign
2025 has been a banner year for horror, with films like The Conjuring: Last Rites ($485 million), Sinners ($367 million), Final Destination Bloodlines ($315 million), and Weapons ($268 million) dominating the box office.
What makes The Black Phone and its sequel stand out? They capture the essence of a Stephen King novel, with a similar atmosphere and pacing. This is something many adaptations struggle to achieve, but when done right, as in It: Welcome To Derry, it creates a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Looking Ahead
Black Phone 2 is projected to reach a global total of over $130 million, depending on how well it holds up in the coming weeks. The film's success is even more impressive considering the upcoming releases, including Nuremberg, Train of Dreams, and Predator: Badlands. However, the holiday season will bring heavy hitters like Wicked: For Good and Zootopia 2, which will enter the end-of-year box office sweepstakes. And don't forget Five Nights At Freddy’s 2, another horror movie expected to perform well when it arrives in December.
This is why Black Phone 2 still has a chance to attract new viewers for a few more weeks. The slate of new films doesn’t cut too deeply into Black Phone 2’s primary target audience much or shift media narrative enough to overshadow the horror sequel’s ability to cut through the noise to younger audiences and horror fans.
What are your thoughts on the current state of horror films? Do you agree that Black Phone 2 captures the essence of a Stephen King novel? Share your opinions in the comments below!
