Introduction
“Smile 2” (2024), directed by Parker Finn, brings a chilling continuation to the world introduced in the 2022 sleeper hit “Smile.” While the original film hooked audiences with its relentless horror, disturbing imagery, and supernatural menace, the sequel takes an audacious new path, focusing on the internal and external pressures of fame. Starring Naomi Scott as Skye Riley, a pop sensation battling both the trauma of a past accident and a supernatural curse, Smile 2 intertwines psychological horror with celebrity culture. But does it live up to the chilling expectations of its predecessor?
Plot Overview: A Pop Star Haunted by the Past and Present
The film follows Skye Riley (Naomi Scott), a globally recognized pop star who, just before launching her comeback tour, starts to experience terrifying and inexplicable events. Skye, still reeling from a tragic car accident that killed her boyfriend and nearly ended her career, is haunted by a demonic force reminiscent of the original film’s villain—a supernatural entity that feeds on trauma and causes its victims to die in horrifying ways.
The core premise remains similar to the original “Smile.” The malevolent entity haunts its victims, forcing them to confront their deepest fears and insecurities before compelling them to end their own lives in front of a witness, thus passing the curse. In Skye’s case, the mounting pressures of fame, a grueling tour schedule, and unresolved emotional turmoil make her an ideal target. The curse latches onto her after she witnesses the horrific suicide of her former drug dealer, throwing her into a psychological spiral of hallucinations, paranoia, and dread.
Character Development: Naomi Scott Shines as Skye Riley
Naomi Scott delivers a standout performance as Skye, portraying a deeply troubled yet resilient character. Skye’s struggle with addiction, grief, and the relentless pressure to maintain her public image is palpable. Scott’s portrayal feels raw and convincing, allowing audiences to empathize with her despite her often erratic behavior. The film effectively captures Skye’s vulnerability as she attempts to navigate her personal demons while being thrust into the spotlight.
Supporting characters, such as Skye’s overbearing mother (Rosemarie DeWitt), who also serves as her manager, and her loyal assistant (Miles Gutierrez-Riley), further emphasize the suffocating nature of fame. The strained relationship with her mother adds layers to Skye’s trauma, making her an even more compelling protagonist.
Visuals and Cinematography: Building Suspense Through Clever Angles
Parker Finn’s direction shines through in Smile 2’s haunting visual aesthetic. The cinematography, handled by Charlie Sarroff, uses clever camera angles, jarring movements, and unsettling close-ups to heighten tension. Finn’s fondness for flipping the camera upside down during moments of distress may feel repetitive at times, but it effectively conveys the disorienting reality Skye finds herself in.
One particularly standout scene involves Skye hallucinating her backup dancers, all grinning maniacally, slowly advancing on her in a flash-mob-style sequence. The use of flashing lights, quick cuts, and distorted sound design immerses the audience in her paranoia, making it one of the film’s most memorable moments.
The film’s use of color palettes shifts between the bright, glossy world of pop stardom and the grim, shadow-filled moments of Skye’s haunted reality, reflecting the duality of her life.
Themes and Messages: Fame, Trauma, and the Human Condition
At its core, Smile 2 is not just about jump scares and supernatural forces. The film delves into deeper themes of trauma, guilt, and the destructive nature of fame. Skye’s battle against the supernatural curse mirrors her internal battle with her past mistakes and her struggle for redemption.
Finn uses Skye’s character to comment on the pressures that come with stardom. The relentless demand for perfection, both in appearance and behavior, leaves her vulnerable to the entity’s manipulations. The film subtly critiques how the entertainment industry can dehumanize its stars, turning them into mere commodities while ignoring their mental and emotional well-being.
Comparing to the Original “Smile” (2022)
While Smile 2 shares many similarities with its predecessor, particularly in terms of plot structure and the supernatural element, it distinguishes itself by focusing on a protagonist who is already in the public eye. The first Smile was more of a personal horror, while the sequel broadens its scope to explore the intersection of trauma and fame.
The original film’s strength lay in its simplicity—the psychological terror was immediate, raw, and intimate. In contrast, Smile 2 takes a risk by expanding the lore and adding layers of societal commentary. Some might argue that this detracts from the pure horror of the original, but it offers a more nuanced narrative.
Direction and Screenwriting: Parker Finn’s Evolving Style
Parker Finn returns as both writer and director, bringing with him the same eerie style that made Smile a hit. However, in Smile 2, his direction feels more refined. He balances the horror with moments of levity, using dark humor to break the tension before plunging the audience back into terror. Finn’s screenplay cleverly intertwines Skye’s personal struggles with the supernatural plot, making it feel like more than just a typical horror sequel.
Final Verdict: Is Smile 2 Worth Watching?
Smile 2 is not without its flaws—it suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the second act, where the narrative drags under the weight of Skye’s endless hallucinations. Additionally, some of the jump scares feel recycled from the first film. However, the film’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Naomi Scott’s performance is captivating, the visuals are striking, and the themes resonate in a way that elevates the horror beyond mere spectacle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Smile 2 is a worthy sequel that builds on the foundations of the original while exploring new thematic territory. While it may not be as terrifying as the first installment, it offers a more complex and emotionally engaging narrative. Fans of the original film, as well as newcomers to the franchise, will find plenty to enjoy in this psychological horror.
If you’re looking for a horror film that combines supernatural scares with thoughtful commentary on the pressures of fame, Smile 2 is definitely worth watching. Catch it in theaters or find out where to stream it here. And if you’re curious about the original, check out the top-rated movies on Gomovies.
For a sneak peek, watch the official trailer on YouTube here.
