Director Parker Finn returns with a bolder and bloodier continuation of his 2022 hit, delivering compelling performances and heightened thrills.
Watch the Trailer below.
Table of Contents
A Sequel That Builds on Success
Parker Finn’s “Smile 2” is not just a continuation of his 2022 horror hit but a sequel that amplifies everything that worked in the original. Critics agree that Finn has shown remarkable growth as a filmmaker, creating an ambitious follow-up that is not only visually captivating but also features a powerhouse performance by Naomi Scott. In this installment, Scott steps into the role of pop sensation Skye Riley, bringing an emotional depth that makes the film a standout in the horror genre.
A High-Stakes Struggle for Survival
In “Smile 2”, the stakes are raised significantly from the original film. While the first movie revolved around a psychiatrist struggling with the curse of the smiling entity, the sequel takes a more intense and star-studded turn. Skye Riley, a famous pop star recovering from addiction and a tragic car accident, becomes the latest victim of the eerie smile. Her fame and the pressures of maintaining her public image only serve to heighten the terror as she battles her internal demons alongside the supernatural curse.
Naomi Scott’s portrayal of Skye Riley stands out, as she expertly captures the emotional turmoil of a celebrity forced to keep up appearances while being haunted by the relentless curse. Scott’s real-life background in music adds authenticity to her performance, particularly in the film’s scenes where Skye is seen practicing elaborate choreography or performing in front of a crowd. These moments are juxtaposed with horrific visions that escalate in intensity, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare.
The Curse Returns — But Bigger and Bloodier
The malevolent curse from the original “Smile” returns in full force. Victims still suffer horrific mental breakdowns before committing gruesome acts of violence, but this time, the intensity is ramped up. The curse warps Skye’s perception of time and reality, causing hallucinations of familiar faces with grotesque, unsettling smiles. Finn’s direction ensures these scenes are not only terrifying but also deeply disturbing, showcasing how isolation, fame, and trauma can leave someone vulnerable to such horror.
While the curse remains the same, “Smile 2” delves deeper into its thematic elements, tackling issues such as addiction, dependency, and the burden of stardom. Skye’s battle with her own trauma — both personal and supernatural — plays out against the backdrop of her high-pressure career. As her life spirals out of control, the movie offers a chilling commentary on the price of fame and the emotional toll it can take.
A Visual Feast of Horror
One of the most notable aspects of “Smile 2” is its visual style. Cinematographer Charlie Sarroff creates a sterile, dreamlike atmosphere, drawing viewers into Skye’s twisted reality. The film’s use of vivid, nightmarish imagery intensifies as the curse begins to fully take hold of Skye, resulting in some of the most creative and shocking death scenes in recent horror. Finn’s ability to stage these moments with both grotesque beauty and gut-wrenching horror adds to the overall appeal of the film.
Critics have praised “Smile 2” for its ambitious set pieces, highlighting the significant improvement in visual storytelling from the original. With a larger budget, Finn takes full advantage of the opportunity to create more elaborate and terrifying sequences, blending practical effects with unsettling sound design to keep audiences on edge.
Naomi Scott’s Stellar Performance
At the heart of the film is Naomi Scott’s incredible portrayal of Skye Riley. Many reviewers have hailed her performance as one of the best in recent horror films, comparing her work to other genre greats like Toni Collette in “Hereditary” and Lupita Nyong’o in “Us”. Scott’s ability to balance vulnerability and rage, particularly in moments when the smiling curse consumes her, elevates the movie beyond just a typical horror sequel.
Scott’s dedication to the role is evident in the way she inhabits Skye’s character, showing both her fragility and her resilience as she fights back against the curse. From co-writing songs for the movie’s soundtrack to performing intense physical scenes, including a harrowing sequence where she slaps herself awake from a nightmare, Scott fully immerses herself in the character. This level of commitment is what makes Skye a compelling protagonist, and Scott’s performance is likely to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
A Sequel Worth Watching
Though “Smile 2” is a clear continuation of the first film, it manages to avoid feeling like a mere rehash. Finn introduces new layers to the story, exploring the darker sides of celebrity life and the isolating effects of trauma. While some critics have noted that the film sticks closely to the formula of its predecessor, the sequel’s ability to push boundaries and deliver bigger scares makes it a must-watch for horror fans.
Moreover, the film’s ending leaves the door open for future installments, with fans already clamoring for a “Smile 3”. Whether or not Finn decides to continue the franchise, “Smile 2” proves that there’s still plenty of room for this chilling concept to grow.
Trailer (Smile 2)
