“Smile 2” (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Following the eerie success of the original “Smile” in 2022, writer-director Parker Finn returns with the highly anticipated sequel, “Smile 2.” Released in 2024, the film takes us deeper into a twisted world where trauma, fame, and supernatural terror intersect. This review will explore the strengths and weaknesses of “Smile 2,” highlighting its plot, performances, and available streaming options. While still in theaters, we’ll also provide insights on when and where it may land on popular streaming platforms.
Plot Overview
“Smile 2” picks up the eerie supernatural torch of its predecessor with a fresh but equally disturbing narrative. This time, the story centers around Skye Riley, portrayed by Naomi Scott, a pop superstar on the verge of a comeback world tour. After a near-fatal car accident that claimed the life of her movie star boyfriend, Skye is battling addiction, fame, and the lingering guilt of her past. The real horror begins when she witnesses a terrifying suicide, setting off a series of terrifying, reality-bending events that threaten her sanity and life.
Much like the first film, “Smile 2” follows the pattern of a demonic entity that stalks its victims, feeding off their trauma. This entity, which causes its victims to experience nightmarish visions before pushing them to suicide, works like a parasite, passing to anyone who witnesses the horrific event. In Skye’s case, the horrors of fame and the pressure of her comeback create a rich emotional playground for the film to explore.
Performances and Direction
Naomi Scott delivers a powerful and emotionally charged performance as Skye Riley. Her portrayal of a pop star unraveling under the pressures of fame while facing supernatural terror is one of the highlights of the film. Scott’s ability to blend vulnerability with raw terror brings a unique depth to the character, making the audience empathize with her plight.
Parker Finn, who impressed horror enthusiasts with his debut in “Smile,” returns with a bigger, more ambitious vision. The film is packed with jump scares, unsettling imagery, and tension that builds to an electrifying finale. While some of Finn’s signature tricks, like the frequent use of upside-down camera angles and sudden shifts in reality, may feel repetitive at times, they work well within the film’s chaotic and surreal atmosphere.
The cinematography in “Smile 2” is another standout. The film’s use of lighting, distorted perspectives, and eerie sound design keeps the audience on edge. A particularly memorable scene involves Skye’s backup dancers morphing into nightmarish figures, advancing on her with sinister grins in a sequence that’s both horrifying and visually captivating.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Naomi Scott’s Performance: Scott’s portrayal of Skye Riley is both captivating and authentic. She gives the character depth, making her descent into madness all the more engaging.
- Horror and Humor Balance: Finn continues to blend horror with moments of dark humor, providing brief but effective relief before diving back into the terror.
- Impressive Visuals: The film’s visual style, from its use of color to its camera techniques, enhances the overall unsettling mood and atmosphere.
Weaknesses:
- Overused Tricks: While the jump scares and camera tricks are effective, they can feel repetitive, especially for viewers familiar with Finn’s style from the first film.
- Pacing Issues: At over two hours long, some moments in the middle of the film drag, making the second act feel slightly bloated.
Streaming and Availability: Where to Watch “Smile 2” Online
As of October 2024, “Smile 2” is still running in theaters, giving horror fans a chance to experience it on the big screen. However, given the distribution patterns of Paramount Pictures, it’s likely that the film will soon be available for streaming and rental/purchase across several platforms.
Expected Streaming Platforms:
- Paramount+ – Since the film is produced by Paramount Pictures, it is expected that “Smile 2” will eventually be available for streaming on Paramount+. Based on past releases, we anticipate it will arrive on the platform approximately 45 days after its theatrical release, potentially around late November or early December 2024.
- Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Purchase) – As with many new releases, “Smile 2” is expected to be available for digital rental or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video. Users will likely be able to rent or buy the film shortly after its theater run, offering an option for those eager to watch at home.
- Apple TV and Google Play – Similarly, other digital platforms such as Apple TV and Google Play will likely offer the movie for rent or purchase within the next few months.
Conclusion
“Smile 2” builds on the success of its predecessor with an expanded storyline, excellent performances, and Parker Finn’s unique brand of terror. While it may not completely reinvent the wheel, it delivers enough scares and emotional weight to keep horror fans invested. Naomi Scott shines in her role, elevating the film beyond simple jump-scare horror. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural terror or enjoy character-driven horror, “Smile 2” is worth the watch.
As the film continues its theatrical run, keep an eye on streaming platforms like Paramount+ and rental services such as Amazon Prime Video for its digital release. Until then, catching “Smile 2” in theaters offers the full horror experience, complete with spine-chilling scares and a haunting score.
