The Black Phone Review: 6 Ups & 4 Downs

Ups...

6. Scott Derrickson's Atmospheric Direction

Scott Derrickson's most high-profile work might reside within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but he cut his filmmaking teeth as a horror director, and as with his 2012 hit Sinister, Derrickson proves himself highly adept at weaving a dread-soaked atmosphere.

Though the vibe of Stephen King unavoidably looms large throughout, Derrickson's keen eye for imposing visuals conveys the bleak isolation of Finney's scenario and also the abject evil of the Grabber's acts.

Aided by Brett Jutkiewicz's grimy cinematography, this is quite the uninviting world we step into - a deceptively sleepy Colorado suburb which harbours a deranged child-killer in its midst.

The frequent use of Super 8 film footage to depict nightmarish visions of the Grabber's abductions is also highly effective, just as it was for the snuff films in Derrickson's Sinister.

If the movie ultimately lacks a little in the suspense department, Derrickson nevertheless ably tightens the screws through his thick stylistic mood, ensuring you'll probably want to take a long shower once this thing is over.