'Black Phone 2' Hauls $2.6 Million in Thursday Previews, Eyes Solid Opening Weekend

Universal and Blumhouse's anticipated horror sequel, "Black Phone 2," has made a strong debut, pulling in an impressive $2.6 million from Thursday preview screenings. The early box office figures, initially reported by Deadline, position the film for a robust opening weekend, with industry analysts projecting a haul between $20 million and $30 million. This performance underscores the enduring appeal of the horror genre and the consistent success of the Blumhouse production model.

The film, which expanded into 2,900 theaters for preview showtimes beginning at 2 p.m. on Thursday, demonstrated significant audience interest ahead of its wide release. While the $2.6 million figure is slightly below the $3 million garnered by its 2021 predecessor, "The Black Phone," it remains a promising indicator for a horror sequel in a competitive cinematic landscape.

Understanding the Previews and Projections

Preview screenings, typically held the night before a film's official release, serve as an important barometer for a movie's opening weekend potential. Strong preview numbers often translate to a healthy overall box office performance, indicating positive buzz and a dedicated fanbase eager to see the film as early as possible. For horror films, this early turnout is particularly crucial, as the genre often thrives on immediate audience engagement and social media discussion.

The $20 million to $30 million opening weekend projection by industry trackers reflects confidence in "Black Phone 2"'s ability to attract both its established audience and new viewers. This range would place the sequel comfortably among successful horror releases of recent years, especially given its R-rating and the niche appeal of the psychological thriller.

The Blumhouse Formula: A Track Record of Success

Blumhouse Productions, known for its cost-effective filmmaking approach and consistent delivery of high-quality horror content, continues its successful streak with "Black Phone 2." The studio has carved a formidable niche in the entertainment industry by producing hit franchises like "Paranormal Activity," "Insidious," and "The Purge," alongside standalone successes. Their strategy often involves relatively modest budgets, allowing for significant profit margins even with moderate box office returns.

"The Black Phone" (2021), directed by Scott Derrickson and starring Ethan Hawke, was a critical and commercial success, earning over $161 million worldwide on a $18 million budget. Its unique blend of supernatural horror and coming-of-age drama resonated deeply with audiences. The sequel aims to build on this foundation, with Derrickson returning to direct and key cast members reprising their roles, promising continuity in its dark narrative.

The State of the Horror Market

The horror genre has consistently proven to be a reliable draw for moviegoers, especially in a post-pandemic environment where theatrical attendance has been unpredictable. Horror films often benefit from the communal experience of watching scary movies in a darkened theater, making them less susceptible to the challenges faced by other genres competing with streaming services.

The performance of "Black Phone 2" this weekend will be closely watched by studios looking to understand evolving audience preferences and the potential for new or returning franchises. A strong showing could further solidify horror's position as a cornerstone of the theatrical experience and encourage more investment in original and sequel projects within the genre.

What's Next for the Box Office?

As the weekend progresses, final figures for "Black Phone 2"'s opening will provide a clearer picture of its trajectory. Its initial success in previews suggests that Universal and Blumhouse have another hit on their hands, continuing their reign in the horror landscape. The film's critical reception and audience word-of-mouth throughout the weekend will be crucial factors in determining its long-term box office run and potential for future installments in "The Black Phone" saga.