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The Black Phone (2022)
Are you ready for a movie that will leave you shook? The Black Phone (2022) is the latest thriller from director Scott Derrickson and co-writer Robert Cargill. It follows the story of Finney (Mason Thames), a teen kidnapped by The Grabber (Ethan Hawke). This semi-paranormal serial murderer flick, with its 70s-style soundtrack and unpredictable villain, is sure to test your resilience. We’ll take a closer look at the themes, characters, and style of The Black Phone in this review. So, get ready to be taken on a suspenseful journey and buckle up for a wild ride.
Overview
Experience a suspenseful, thrilling ride with Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, and Madeleine McGraw in Scott Derrickson’s and Robert Cargill’s gripping adaptation of Joe Hill’s short story, The Black Phone. This genre-blending horror flick is not your typical slasher film. Instead, it dives deep into the morality debate of family bonds, trauma, and abuse. The cinematography techniques are also worth noting. The warm, vintage colors, film grain, and filtered light bring a nostalgic feeling to the screen. Meanwhile, the juxtaposition of calm and chaos creates tension and suspense. The soundtrack is a mix of upbeat 70s tunes and bassy, resonant score. Horror tropes are present, but the punchlines are natural, relying more on character development than gory visuals. This is a movie that will leave you thinking, wondering, and with a new appreciation for the bond of youth.
Plot and Style
You’ll be immersed in a world of vintage photographs and 70s sounds as you travel through the suspenseful tale of The Grabber, a child killer who snatches teen boys in broad daylight. The Black Phone is a visual, sonic, and emotional feast. From the stylistically nostalgic atmosphere, complete with warm browns and oranges, film grain, and filtered light, to the bassy, resonant score and upbeat 70s soundtrack, the sound design and cinematography create an atmospheric tension that is both captivating and chilling. Finney (Mason Thames) becomes The Grabber’s next captive, held in a soundproof basement, and from there, the film dives into the depths of emotional depth and visceral visuals. The Black Phone is a captivating journey through the darkness with a powerful message hidden below.
Themes
Be prepared to be moved by the deep themes of cycles of abuse, trauma, and the bond of youth hidden beneath this semi-paranormal serial killer flick. The Black Phone exposes a complex narrative of genetic trauma and its effects on familial bonds, as well as the struggle to find coping mechanisms amidst the moral dilemmas presented. The film is a brilliant illustration of the intergenerational trauma that can be passed down from parent to child, and how it shapes the story of the main character, Finney. It is a suspenseful tale of resilience and support, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Characters
Prepare to be captivated by the excellent performances of Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, and Madeleine McGraw, each of whom bring their own unique elements to the film. Hawke’s Grabber is characterized by escalating tension and moral ambiguity, showcasing a complex villain with psychological trauma from parental bonds. Thames and McGraw bring a finesse to their characters that grips you with their emotional performances. With subtlety, Thames and McGraw are able to balance a wide range of emotions, resulting in a captivating performance that’ll have you on the edge of your seat. The Black Phone is an intense psychological thriller and these characters work together to make it a powerful experience for viewers.
Review
Experience a thrilling ride as you dive into the psychological depths of this suspenseful story, with riveting performances by Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, and Madeleine McGraw. The Black Phone is an intense, thought-provoking exploration of fear, redemption, justice, abuse, and loss. Written by Peyton Robinson for RogerEbert.com, this film review is a must-read for any fan of horror and suspense. The punches of the story are delivered with a sense of naturalism, as the film centers on young teenagers. The gore takes a back seat, while character development takes the limelight. Robinson’s expertise in film journalism brings the horror to life, with her long-held passion for the genre being the kickstarter for her career. With an upbeat 70s soundtrack and warm browns and oranges, the film has a vintage feel that creates an atmosphere of both calm and collection, while violence festers underneath. The Black Phone is an unforgettable experience, not to be missed.
Conclusion
So, is The Black Phone worth your time? Absolutely! Scott Derrickson and Robert Cargill have crafted a suspenseful and thrilling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The themes of resilience and support, as well as the unpredictable and volatile villain, make this movie a must-see. The characters are engaging and the 70s style soundtrack gives the film a unique vibe. If you’re looking for a thrilling and suspenseful movie, The Black Phone is definitely worth checking out. Go ahead and give it a watch – you won’t regret it!
