“The Black Phone” is a 2021 horror thriller film directed by Scott Derrickson and written by Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill, based on the short story of the same name by Joe Hill. The movie stars Ethan Hawke, playing the role of a sinister kidnapper known as “The Grabber,” and newcomer Mason Thames as the young protagonist, Finney Shaw.
The plot of the movie revolves around Finney, a young boy who is kidnapped by The Grabber and taken to an isolated house, where he discovers a black rotary phone that allows him to communicate with the dead. With the help of the spirits, he speaks to Finney and tries to outwit The Grabber and escape from his clutches.
In addition to Hawke and Thames, the cast of the movie also includes James Ransone, who plays a detective investigating kidnappings, and Madeleine McGraw as Finney’s sister, who is also targeted by The Grabber.
“The Black Phone” has received positive reviews from critics for its suspenseful and inventive storytelling, strong performances, and striking visuals. Many critics have also praised the movie’s ability to balance horror and emotional resonance, as well as its effective use of the phone as a storytelling device.
