Overview

• Universal and Blumhouse roll out the sequel in theaters on October 17 with Scott Derrickson directing and Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames and Madeleine McGraw returning.
• Derrickson says the high school–set follow-up needed “more intensity” and “more gore,” positioning it as a more aggressive entry than the 2021 film.
• The movie is officially rated R for strong violent content, gore, teen drug use and language.
• Following its Fantastic Fest premiere, early buzz has been positive, while a new Collider review praises the leads and direction but flags clunky dialogue and heavy-handed themes.
• AMC Theatres is promoting the release with a collectible rotary phone popcorn tin available in participating locations starting October 16.