October’s box office is looking eerily quiet, but could The Black Phone 2 finally ring in a win for Blumhouse? Just like last year, when Joker: Folie à Deux failed to light up the autumn box office, this month’s theatrical releases seem to be falling flat. Despite critical acclaim, star-driven films like The Smashing Machine and Roofman have underperformed, while Disney’s high-budget Tron: Ares continues to prove that this franchise appeals to a niche audience at best. It’s no surprise that Netflix is re-releasing K-pop Demon Hunters this Halloween weekend—theater owners are desperate for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. But here’s where it gets interesting: Blumhouse is betting big on the spooky season with the release of The Black Phone 2, hoping audiences are craving a good horror flick. The original film was a surprise hit, raking in over $23 million during its opening weekend and eventually grossing $90 million domestically (over $160 million globally) on a mere $16 million budget. It was a shining example of Blumhouse’s low-budget, high-concept strategy paying off—when executed well. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can The Black Phone 2 replicate that success, or is Blumhouse’s luck running out? After a string of flops like Wolf Man, Woman in the Yard, Drop, and the costly M3GAN 2.0, the studio desperately needs a win. Early predictions suggest The Black Phone 2 could open at $20 million, a decent but not groundbreaking result. However, it’s unlikely to match the original’s staying power, as fans are scratching their heads over Ethan Hawke’s return as The Grabber—a character who died in the first film. (Check out our mixed review for more details.) Adding to the skepticism, Hawke reportedly has minimal screen time, though rising star Mason Thames—fresh off the success of the How to Train Your Dragon reboot—may draw some audiences. Ironically, Thames has another film, Regretting You, opening next weekend. And this is the part most people miss: Is Blumhouse relying too heavily on past success, or can they still innovate in the horror genre? Elsewhere at the box office, Tron: Ares is expected to land in second place with around $15 million, likely dropping 50-60% in its second week—a clear sign the franchise is on shaky ground. Aziz Ansari’s Good Fortune, starring Keanu Reeves as an angel, could debut in the $10 million range, though mixed reviews and the recent struggles of comedies at the box office may dampen its prospects. Amazon/MGM’s awards contender After the Hunt is projected to open in fourth place with $6 million, while Roofman rounds out the top five at $5 million. Here are our predictions for the weekend: 1. The Black Phone 2: $20 million 2. Tron: Ares: $15 million 3. Good Fortune: $10 million 4. After the Hunt: $6 million 5. Roofman: $5 million What’s on your must-watch list this weekend? Let us know in the comments! Thought-provoking question: With Blumhouse’s recent track record, is The Black Phone 2 a safe bet, or are audiences ready for something entirely new? Share your thoughts below!
