The Black Phone

The Black Phone

Movie • 2022

Never talk to strangers.

Finney Blake, a shy but clever 13-year-old boy, is abducted by a sadistic killer and trapped in a soundproof basement where screaming is of little use. When a disconnected phone on the wall begins to ring, Finney discovers that he can hear the voices of the killer’s previous victims. And they are dead set on making sure that what happened to them doesn’t happen to Finney.

Horror
Thriller
103 minutes
Released

Bara says...

Ages 16+, but every child is different

This film contains intense sequences of child abduction, psychological torture, and visceral violence that are unsuitable for younger audiences. The heavy, suspenseful tone and focus on victimization require emotional maturity to process.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

0/5

There is no sexual content or nudity in this film. The movie focuses entirely on the kidnapping narrative and supernatural elements.

Violence & Gore

4/5

The film contains disturbing scenes of physical abuse, including beatings, belt lashes, and depictions of dead bodies. It features a sadistic antagonist who harms children, resulting in intense and graphic moments of threat and injury.

Profanity

4/5

The language is quite harsh and frequent, including the word 'f*ck' used roughly 20+ times, 'sh*t' used frequently, and various uses of 'b*tch', 'h*ll', and 'd*mn' primarily during heated arguments or instances of extreme stress.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

There are brief scenes depicting alcohol consumption and smoking by adult characters. These are incidental to the setting and not a core plot focus.

Frightening Scenes

4/5

The film relies on extreme psychological tension, jump scares, and a pervasive sense of dread throughout. It features depictions of child abduction and haunting, supernatural imagery that are highly disturbing for younger viewers.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This is a dark, intense story about a boy who must find his own courage and use his wits to escape a dangerous situation.

Content Warnings

Child abduction
Graphic violence
Physical and emotional abuse

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film focuses on the abduction and containment of a child, which creates high-tension, distressing atmosphere throughout. Expect scenes of physical altercations, intimidation, and themes of death.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers can observe how characters utilize critical thinking and calm problem-solving to navigate high-stakes life challenges.

Key Topics Discussed

Survivor resilience
Child endangerment
Supernatural suspense

Why Parents Might Like It

Horror enthusiasts will appreciate the atmospheric world-building, taut pacing, and strong performances that elevate the supernatural tension.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

3/5

The narrative emphasizes the necessity of resilience, bravery, and self-reliance when facing insurmountable odds. It highlights the importance of trusting one's instincts and finding inner strength.

Positive Role Models

3/5

The protagonist demonstrates resourcefulness and persistence under extreme duress. While the other characters are in tragic circumstances, they act with selfless motivation to support the survivor.

Diverse Representations

2/5

No diverse representation indicated in available information regarding core characters or identity-focused storytelling.

Educational Value

1/5

Provides no formal educational outcomes beyond thematic exploration of fear and survival instincts.

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