Ethan Hawke's Dual Roles: From The Grabber to Lorenz Hart

Ethan Hawke continues to solidify his reputation in Hollywood through a diverse range of roles, including his recent portrayal of The Grabber in the horror sequel *The Black Phone 2*. Released in October 2025, the film has achieved significant commercial success, grossing $132.2 million globally, with $77.4 million from domestic audiences and $54.8 million internationally. This sequel, directed by Scott Derrickson, marks a continuation of Hawke's involvement in genre cinema, which he balances with more dramatic roles.

Newsweek

*The Black Phone 2* is set to debut on Universal's streaming platform, Peacock, on January 16, 2026, providing subscribers with exclusive access. For those without a subscription, the film is currently available for rental on various platforms. This release strategy reflects the growing trend of major films transitioning to streaming services shortly after their theatrical runs.

Newsweek

Hawke's career spans over five decades, during which he has garnered four Academy Award nominations. He is known for his versatility, taking on roles in both independent films and mainstream cinema. His recent performance as Lorenz Hart in *Blue Moon* has earned him critical acclaim, including a seventh Critics’ Choice nomination and a third Golden Globe nod. The contrast between his characters—The Grabber, a serial kidnapper, and Hart, a troubled lyricist—highlights Hawke's range as an actor.

Newsweek

While both The Grabber and Lorenz Hart are characterized as extroverted in their interactions, their motivations diverge significantly. The Grabber is depicted as a malevolent figure intent on destruction, while Hart's narrative revolves around personal struggles and creative aspirations, particularly his complicated relationship with rival Oscar Hammerstein II. This duality in Hawke's roles showcases his ability to navigate complex characters, each with their own destructive tendencies.

Newsweek

Hawke's performances in both *The Black Phone 2* and *Blue Moon* have sparked discussions about his artistic choices. Critics have noted the stark differences between the two characters, emphasizing Hawke's skill in portraying contrasting narratives. The film's success has also been attributed to its engaging storyline and Hawke's compelling performance, which resonates with audiences.

Newsweek

Despite the film's commercial success, some critics have expressed concerns about the portrayal of violence in *The Black Phone 2*, questioning its impact on viewers. Others have pointed out that while Hawke excels in his roles, the film's reliance on horror tropes may limit its broader appeal.

Newsweek

As Hawke awaits the Oscar nominations announcement on January 22, 2026, his dual roles in *The Black Phone 2* and *Blue Moon* position him as a prominent figure in both the horror and dramatic film genres. His ability to traverse these distinct narratives will likely influence his future projects and the roles he chooses to undertake.

Newsweek