REVIEW: ‘The Black Phone’ rings in classic horror
“The Black Phone” is ringing in success, directed by Scott Derrickson and co-written with frequent collaborator C. Robert Cargill. Derrickson was originally signed on to direct “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” However, after citing creative differences with Marvel and Kevin Feige, Derrickson departed from directing the project in favor of one that allowed him to really flex his horror skills.
The film is an adaption of a 2004 short story of the same name by New York Times bestselling author Joe Hill, son of Stephen King. A star in his own right, Hill’s work, like his father’s, is being adapted more and more. The film is a faithful adaptation, with only minor differences, like The Grabber’s profession changing from a clown to magician. However, this change does not affect nor take away from the source material or film.
Fading in from the opening credits sequence, text appears “1978 Denver, Colorado.” We see a typical suburban neighborhood; in a quick panning shot we see multiple missing person flyers of children. Another young child has been abducted and trapped in a soundproof basement, where screaming is of little use. Suddenly an old, disconnected phone on the wall begins to ring, the clock is ticking and time is running out, do you answer the call? This is where we find our protagonist Finney Blake played by newcomer Mason Thames in his first ever film role. Truly giving a breakout performance holding his own, as much of the film revolves around Thames’s character in this nail biting, anxiety laced, tension building, serial killer-ghost story.
Casting in this film is top notch, with a leading cast of child actors. All of the young actors’ performances really make the audience invested in this film, the trauma shown hits heavy and the tension is palpable. Other noteworthy performances that will leave viewers in awe are Madeline McGraw as Gwen Blake, Finney’s sister. McGraw’s performance shows she will be a force in Hollywood in the years to come with her ability to steal scenes already. McGraw’s performance was brave, fierce and thrilling well beyond her years. Another stand out was Miguel Cazarez Mora also in his phenomenal first role as Robin, Finney’s no-nonsense friend, whose performance will stay with viewers long after the film. You can really feel in all these young actors their struggles, pains, anxieties and even their successes.
Starring across from the two Blake children is their father Terrence played by Jeremy Davies, who gave an excellent performance that will make you cringe as you twist in your seat and even come to hate his character; which is the true sign of a great performance. The scenes he was in, while few, were demanding and he stepped up to the plate giving the audience a character not easy to forget or forgive.
Last but certainly not least was the role of “The Grabber” fully enveloped and embodied by Ethan Hawke, whose performance will transcend the screen and is sure to not only be an iconic horror villain for years to come but also this Halloweens most sought after mask and costume. Originally Hawke was said to be hesitant to take on the role as an evil black balloon wielding serial killer but decided to try it because of his belief in Scott Derrickson. Hawke’s character despite being shrouded behind a venetian inspired mask is still able to emote beyond words, elicit such unease and worry that even the veteran horror fan will still jump and feel the fear inducing urgency with every scene “The Grabber” is in.
The mask was exceptionally crafted by none other than legendary make-up, masks and practical effects artist Tom Savini. Savini most recently created masks for the band Slipknot and WWE wrestler Bray Wyatt aka “The Fiend.” When Scott Derrickson handed over the mask designing to Savini they were in great hands, Savini has said the original idea for the mask came from looking at several Italian half masks with Derrickson giving him the idea of it being interchangeable and in pieces.
The team of Scott Derrickson, Ethan Hawke and James Ransone are back together after previously working on the 2012 film “Sinister.” The team has not missed a step and have even carried over some connective tissue from the “Sinister” franchise into “The Black Phone” through Derrickson’s use of 8 mm film in both films.
The score gnaws at the audience’s ears and was composed by none other than Mark Korven, creator of the “apprehension engine” a custom-made instrument made specifically for horror films. You may know it from the fear inducing, anxiety riddled, unsettling sounds it has created for such films as Robert Eggers’ “The Witch” and “The Lighthouse” look it up, its use was haunting throughout!
“The Black Phone” delivers and is sure to entertain all fans of suspense. Not since “The Invisible Man (2020)” have I felt such an ominous sense of unease and pure enjoyment all at once. A must-watch in theaters for horror fans and a future must-own. A film to show your teen kids or family members the value of teaching them about “stranger danger.” “The Black Phone” is available for rental and purchase July 13.
EDITOR’S NOTE 8/10/2022: This article originally incorrectly referred to Finney and Gwen’s characters using the last name Shaw. Their last name was corrected to Blake.
