Creators Discuss Future of The Black Phone Franchise Amid Sequel Release

The release of Black Phone 2 has sparked discussions about the potential for a third installment in the horror franchise. Following the same protagonists and villain as the 2021 hit, the sequel expands its universe, drawing inspiration from various horror classics, including elements reminiscent of A Nightmare on Elm Street and 1983’s Curtains.

During the world premiere at Fantastic Fest 2025, director Scott Derrickson shared insights about the future of the series. He emphasized a careful approach to filmmaking, stating, “I can’t think about filmmaking that way. I understand that’s the business of the studios, trying to create film franchises. But as a filmmaker, I have to go one film at a time.” Derrickson noted that no discussions regarding a Black Phone 3 have taken place yet.

Co-writer C. Robert Cargill, who has collaborated with Derrickson on both Black Phone films and Sinister, expressed enthusiasm about potentially reuniting with the cast, which includes Mason Thames, Madeleine McGraw, and Ethan Hawke. “Would we love to get the band back together? Absolutely,” he said. However, he stressed the importance of having a compelling story before committing to another project. “It’s really got to be something really great and inspiring for us to want to make a third one,” Cargill added.

The concept for Black Phone 2 originated from acclaimed author Joe Hill, whose 2004 short story inspired the first film. Cargill recalled Hill’s pitch: “Joe Hill called me and said, ‘I have the dumbest idea,’ and I’m like, ‘I love dumb ideas!’” The core idea involved Finny answering a phone call from the villain, The Grabber, from Hell, which became a central theme of the sequel.

While both Derrickson and Cargill acknowledge the allure of creating a horror franchise, they remain committed to the integrity of the storytelling process. Derrickson highlighted that only two horror trilogies truly stand out—Sam Raimi’s Evil Dead trilogy and George A. Romero’s original Night of the Living Dead series—where each film is regarded as excellent. “I don’t know how I could possibly continue to work on any film franchise unless I was at least trying to do that,” he stated.

As audiences await the full impact of Black Phone 2, the filmmakers remain open to the idea of a third film, provided a strong concept emerges. Derrickson reflected on the franchise’s future, saying, “If it happens, it happens.” For now, fans can enjoy the latest installment, which is currently in theaters, and contemplate the darker possibilities of what lies ahead in this chilling series.