Mason Thames Hopes Ethan Hawke's Grabber Becomes the Next Freddy Krueger in 'The Black Phone 2'

Since its terrifying debut, Scott Derrickson's 'The Black Phone' has captivated audiences with its chilling premise and masterful performances, particularly Ethan Hawke's utterly unnerving portrayal of The Grabber. The film's success has naturally sparked intense discussions about a potential sequel, 'The Black Phone 2,' and what direction it might take.

One of the film's young stars, Mason Thames, who played the resilient Finney Shaw, has now weighed in with an exciting vision for the franchise's future, expressing a fervent hope that The Grabber could ascend to the ranks of horror's most iconic villains, much like Freddy Krueger.

Thames's enthusiasm for 'The Black Phone 2' is palpable.

He's not just keen on returning to the dark world of the film; he believes that if Ethan Hawke were to reprise his role as the masked child abductor, it could elevate The Grabber to legendary status. The comparison to Freddy Krueger, the dream-stalking antagonist from 'A Nightmare on Elm Street,' is a significant one.

Krueger isn't just a scary character; he's a cultural phenomenon, instantly recognizable, and deeply embedded in the horror psyche. For Thames to draw this parallel suggests a desire for The Grabber to achieve a similar level of enduring recognition and chilling impact across multiple films.

Ethan Hawke's performance as The Grabber was a masterclass in subtlety and terror.

Despite often being masked, his physical presence and the menace in his voice were enough to create a truly unforgettable villain. His unique combination of seemingly ordinary demeanor and grotesque cruelty resonated deeply with viewers, making him one of the most talked-about antagonists in recent horror history.

Thames's comments underscore the critical importance of Hawke's return; it's not just about bringing back a character, but about ensuring the continuation of a performance that defines the very essence of the horror.

The idea of The Grabber becoming the next Freddy Krueger opens up fascinating possibilities for 'The Black Phone 2.' Freddy Krueger's strength lay not just in his scares but in his distinct personality, his unsettling wit, and his ability to transcend the initial film's plot.

For The Grabber, this could mean exploring more of his twisted psyche, perhaps delving into his origins, or even seeing him evolve in new, terrifying ways. While 'The Black Phone' ended with a definitive triumph for Finney, the supernatural elements of the black phone itself, combined with the lingering menace of The Grabber's spirit, could provide a fertile ground for a compelling sequel.

The horror genre thrives on its villains.

Icons like Michael Myers, Jason Voorhees, Leatherface, and indeed, Freddy Krueger, are often the primary draw for audiences, ensuring longevity and a dedicated fanbase. For Mason Thames to explicitly wish for The Grabber to join this pantheon speaks volumes about the character's potential and the impact he has already made.

A successful sequel, particularly one that deepens The Grabber's lore and further showcases Hawke's chilling portrayal, could solidify his place as a modern horror legend. Fans are eagerly awaiting news on 'The Black Phone 2,' hoping that Thames's vision for an even more iconic, terrifying Grabber comes to fruition.