After four decades, Ethan Hawke mesmerizingly transforms into a formidable murderer in the thrilling horror film Black Phone.

Presently, Black Phone is receiving rave reviews, particularly for Ethan Hawke's impeccable performance.

After much anticipation, Blumhouse has officially confirmed the release date of the horror sensation Black Phone, marking the celebrated return of renowned actor Ethan Hawke. This film holds special significance for the 70-year-old actor as it marks his first foray into portraying a villainous murderer.

So, what milestones has he achieved over nearly 40 years in the industry to become a reliable name in Hollywood's film scene?

From indie film darling to versatile acting sensation 

Ethan Hawke's career began in the mid-1980s when he was just 15 years old. Captivating audiences with his youthful charm and good looks, Ethan Hawke rose to prominence after starring in Dead Poets Society. Throughout the period before 2000, Ethan Hawke was known as the darling of indie films, fearlessly exploring various genres such as romantic comedy (Mystery Date), adventure (White Fang), and science fiction (Gattaca). 

The 2000s marked Ethan Hawke's breakthrough in acting, being the decade where the actor was frequently mentioned in major awards. He received his first Oscars nomination for Best Supporting Actor in Training Day in 2002. However, it was his transformative role as a screenwriter in Before Sunset in 2004 (also nominated for an Oscar) that helped him break free from the 'heartthrob' stereotype.

Ethan Hawke embarked on a 'rebellious' phase in the 2010s, taking on more edgy roles in horror-thrillers like Sinister, The Purge, Regression, and more. The four-time Oscar nominee didn't shy away from challenging, emotionally demanding, or physically taxing roles. Boyhood and First Reformed, two critically acclaimed works, affirmed his talent in Hollywood. After almost four decades of captivating performances, Ethan Hawke has become one of the 'guarantees' for quality in films, completely winning the trust of global audiences.

First Time Playing a Villain After Four Decades

Just when it seemed Ethan Hawke had 'retired' from daring roles, he surprised audiences in the early 2020s. The horror project Black Phone, produced by Blumhouse, offered Ethan Hawke his first opportunity to portray a villain. In the film, Ethan Hawke plays The Grabber - a terrifying murderer who regularly kidnaps and kills children in mysterious ways. 

Black Phone is helmed by Scott Derrickson - the 'father' of Sinister and Doctor Strange, and tells the story of Finney (Mason Thames), a boy abducted by The Grabber and held captive in a basement room with nothing but a broken old phone. However, this phone holds many secrets that help Finney find a way to escape. Additionally, Finney's sister Gwen (Madeleine McGraw) tries to rescue him by following dream-like clues.

A 100% Fresh Tomato Comeback and a Downpour of Praises

Currently, Black Phone is enjoying a 100% 'fresh tomato' rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Major Hollywood publications have praised Ethan Hawke, stating that he has exceeded expectations despite this being his first time playing a murderer on the big screen. 

Deadline commends Ethan Hawke for breaking out of the usual safe zone to portray a multifaceted villain, always wearing a mask of deceit. 'That's acting,' confirms Deadline. IGN toughly rates the film 9/10, stating 'The Black Phone brings new challenges for Hawke, and he conquers them all.' The publication is impressed by how The Grabber transitions from playful to sinister in the blink of an eye. 

Clearly, Black Phone is a high-quality project, eagerly awaited from the horror film factory Blumhouse, and marks a satisfying return for the versatile Ethan Hawke. Will The Grabber successfully 'snatch' his sixth victim, Finney, or will he and his sister defeat this evil adversary?

Black Phone starts early screenings from 6 PM on June 22nd and all day on June 23rd, 2022, officially premiering on June 24th, 2022.