In "The Black Phone," several characters meet tragic fates, each contributing to the film's tense atmosphere and emotional weight. Here's a detailed account of the characters who die, the circumstances surrounding their deaths, and the impact on the story:

1. Finney Shaw - While Finney does not die in the film, he is a central character who faces life-threatening situations. His struggle for survival is a key focus, and his character arc revolves around overcoming fear and finding strength.

2. The Grabber (John Wayne Gacy-inspired character) - The main antagonist of the film, the Grabber, is responsible for the deaths of several children. He captures Finney and keeps him in a soundproof basement. The Grabber's fate is sealed when Finney, empowered by the spirits of the children he has killed, ultimately confronts him. In a climactic struggle, Finney manages to kill the Grabber with a weapon he finds, symbolizing his triumph over fear and oppression.

3. Robin - A friend of Finney, Robin is one of the first victims of the Grabber. He is abducted and later found dead, which serves as a catalyst for Finney's fear and the urgency of his situation. Robin's death is revealed through the memories and conversations Finney has with the spirits in the basement, emphasizing the danger that Finney faces.

4. Other Victims - Throughout the film, the spirits of the Grabber's previous victims, including children like Billy and others, appear to Finney. They share their stories and help him strategize his escape. While their deaths are not shown on screen, their tragic fates are implied through their ghostly appearances and the emotional weight they carry, highlighting the Grabber's brutality.

The deaths in "The Black Phone" serve to deepen the horror of the narrative, illustrating the stakes involved in Finney's struggle for survival and the haunting legacy of the Grabber's actions. Each character's demise adds layers to the film's exploration of fear, trauma, and resilience.

The black phone serves as a crucial plot device in the film. It is an old rotary phone that the protagonist, Finney Shaw, discovers in the basement of the house where he is held captive by the Grabber. The phone allows Finney to communicate with the spirits of the Grabber's previous victims, who provide him with guidance and advice on how to escape. Each call reveals important information about the Grabber's methods and weaknesses, making the phone a symbol of hope and connection in Finney's dire situation.

Finney Shaw starts as a shy and introverted boy who is often bullied at school. His character development is marked by his transformation from a passive victim to a resourceful survivor. As he interacts with the spirits through the black phone, he gains confidence and learns to confront his fears. The emotional weight of his situation, combined with the encouragement from the spirits, pushes him to devise a plan for escape, showcasing his growth from vulnerability to resilience.

The spirits of the Grabber's victims play a pivotal role in aiding Finney's escape. Each spirit has a unique personality and story, and they share their experiences and strategies with Finney through the black phone. Their interactions provide him with crucial information about the Grabber's habits and the layout of the basement, as well as emotional support. This connection not only helps Finney to devise a plan but also emphasizes the theme of solidarity among victims.

Finney and his sister Gwen share a close and protective bond. Gwen is portrayed as a strong-willed character who has psychic abilities, which she uses to search for her brother after he goes missing. Their relationship is characterized by mutual support and love, with Gwen often looking out for Finney in their troubled home life. This sibling connection adds emotional depth to the story, as Gwen's determination to find Finney drives her actions and highlights the stakes of his abduction.

The Grabber, portrayed as a menacing and unpredictable figure, is central to the film's tension. His duality as a charming yet terrifying kidnapper creates a sense of dread. He uses psychological manipulation and fear to control Finney, often taunting him and playing mind games. The Grabber's erratic behavior and the mystery surrounding his past add layers of suspense, making every interaction with Finney fraught with danger. His character embodies the physical and emotional threat that Finney must overcome to survive.