: Offers more informal, cinephile-focused write-ups that delve into the film's themes of trauma and empowerment.
The Black Phone (released in Turkey as Siyah Telefon ) is a 2021 supernatural horror film directed by Scott Derrickson and based on Joe Hill’s 2004 short story. It stands out as a "coming-of-age" horror that balances gritty 1970s realism with paranormal elements. Plot & Atmosphere
Set in 1978 Denver, the film follows Finney Shaw, a shy 13-year-old kidnapped by a serial child abductor known as "The Grabber." Locked in a soundproof basement, Finney discovers a disconnected black telephone that begins to ring. Through it, he communicates with the ghosts of the Grabber’s previous victims, who offer him guidance and combat tactics to escape. Siyah Telefon (The Black Phone)
: While it features "jump scares," the movie functions more as a suspenseful thriller about resilience . It explores how Finney finds his own strength by literally using the voices of those who came before him. Critical Reception
Critics generally praised the film for its tight pacing and emotional stakes. You can find detailed reviews and community discussions on platforms like: Plot & Atmosphere Set in 1978 Denver, the
: Aggregates professional reviews highlighting the film's effective scares and strong performances.
: Mason Thames (Finney) and Madeleine McGraw (his sister, Gwen) provide the emotional core. Gwen’s "psychic" dreams add a secondary layer of supernatural tension as she desperately tries to locate her brother. It explores how Finney finds his own strength
The film excels at building a sense of dread rooted in the of the era—a time of "stranger danger," neighborhood brawls, and domestic tension. Key Strengths