“The Black Phone,” a Universal Pictures and Blumhouse release that hits theaters on Friday, is rated R for “violence, bloody images, language and some drug use.” Running time: 103 minutes.

The Black Phone is an enjoyable watch, for sure, but it lacks a certain agility, which keeps it from being as great as we want it to be. Plan your screen time with the weekly What to Watch newsletter.

The Black Phone author, Joe Hill, was happy to share an illuminating update about the highly-anticipated sequel. Find out what he said here.

Black Phone 2 is confirmed, with the sequel's story subtly set up in the original film. Joe Hill reveals a key moment in The Black Phone acted as a "trap door" for the next movie's plot.