“Smile 2” just might be better than its predecessor, but it certainly has a lot to live up to, as the first installment was unique in the way it evoked emotion while using classic horror movie tropes to create fear and terror. The film hits all the right notes for horror fans, delivering gore, terror, jump scares, and psychological horror that blurs the lines between reality and imagination. However, it may not have as many visual scares as the first film, but it does create terror differently.
Table Of Content
Beyond the scares, “Smile 2” explores the culture surrounding pop stars and the often-overlooked issue of mental health in the entertainment industry. Naomi Scott’s character, Skye Riley, grapples with her deteriorating mental health while being pushed to go on tour and engage with her fans. This struggle resonates with real-life situations many celebrities face, making the film’s themes both relevant and poignant. This in itself will spark a connection with the audience who may or may not have experienced similar things.
There are a few moments in the film where Naomi Scott’s character, Skye, breaks down and expresses how she doesn’t understand why her mind is the way it is, or why she seems to destroy everything around her. These moments are deeply relatable, as many of us have experienced similar feelings of anxiety and paranoia that can interfere with our daily lives. Seeing this reflected on screen makes the audience feel more human and less alone, which we recently witnessed in Todd Phillips’ Joker: Folie À Deux.
RELATED: New “Smile 2” Trailer Unleashes More Terror in Spine-Tingling Sequel from Paramount Pictures
While the movie has a serious message, it remains an entertaining ride. The director skillfully balances the horror elements with a deeper narrative, creating a compelling story about someone in the spotlight facing overwhelming pressure and a demonic smiling entity.
The cast delivers standout performances, with Naomi Scott truly shining as Skye as she convincingly portrays fear throughout the film. Her expressive acting ensures every emotion resonates deeply with the audience. If this film is any indication, we can expect to see much more of her in future roles, as her performance is nothing short of astounding.
A fan-favorite moment will undoubtedly be Ray Nicholson’s chilling portrayal, evoking echoes of his father, Jack Nicholson. His terrifying performance showcases his immense talent, sending shivers down the spine and solidifying his presence in the horror genre.
A Solid Sequel
In a world where sequels are not often received positively, Smile 2 elevates the franchise by skillfully blending social commentary with effective horror, making it a must-watch for fans of the series. While some may feel the first movie did more to explain the reasoning behind the demon’s origins, this sequel focuses less on backstory and more on exploring the aftermath of its influence in a world very different from the first. The ending is somewhat predictable and I would have liked to see it take a different route, however, it does leave the door open for another installment.
RELATED: Weekend Watch: Lovable IFS, Scary Stays & Musical Magic
“Smile 2” arrives in theaters this weekend, joining our thrilling lineup as we gear up for the haunted season.
