Here’s the One New Movie on Netflix I’m Excited to Watch This February 2026!
Netflix will feature a host of films in February 2026, but one that particularly stands out is a movie I’ve previously watched.
In 2021, Sinister director Scott Derrickson directed and co-wrote The Black Phone, an adaptation of Joe Hill‘s 2004 short story.
This marked Derrickson’s return to horror following a brief venture into the MCU with Doctor Strange, and it stands out as one of the finest in its genre from the past decade.
Representing Watch With Us, The Black Phone is my choice for the one new film on Netflix that I’m eager to revisit.
Ethan Hawke Delivers a Chilling Performance in ‘The Black Phone’
Set in the late ’70s, the most notable cast member is Ethan Hawke, who portrays the Grabber, a serial killer who brutally targets children by abducting and murdering them. Beyond just killing, the Grabber seeks to psychologically and physically torment his victims. Hawke’s portrayal is impressively convincing, making him genuinely menacing.
The Grabber’s half-face mask enhances the terrifying image of Hawke as a monster targeting children. Yet, it’s Hawke’s performance that elevates the character; his expressive eyes, body language, and chilling voice are crucial. While the Grabber resides in the 20th century, he stands out as one of the most unsettling new figures in horror.
‘The Black Phone’ Features a Remarkably Talented Young Cast
Mason Thames made his acting debut in this film, and he has since expanded his career, including a leading role in the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon. It’s no surprise given Thames’ performance as Finney Blake, the Grabber’s latest victim. He convincingly portrays Finney as both a child of his time and a survivor determined to escape.
Thames’ on-screen sister, Madeleine McGraw, shines as Gwen Blake. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, with Gwen emerging as a secondary lead. Although she couldn’t rescue her brother from bullies, her psychic dreams might just aid Finney in his escape. Like Thames, McGraw has moved on to larger roles, including a sequel to this film.
The Film is Truly Frightening
It’s also important to acknowledge young actors Tristan Pravong and Jacob Moran, who play Bruce and Billy, respectively, both of whom suffered at the hands of the Grabber. The narrative features a supernatural twist, allowing Bruce, Billy, and other victims to communicate with Finney through a black phone found in the Grabber’s basement.
This clever element links the spirits to Finney while underscoring that no one has escaped the Grabber’s clutches. Although Hawke’s character torments Finney relentlessly, he’s the only victim with insights on how to fight back, thanks to these supernatural messages. If Finney cannot leverage that knowledge to flee, his voice may join the grim chorus of victims.
The Black Phone will be available for streaming on Netflix on February 12.
