“Smile 2” writer and director Parker Finn took the unique premise from its predecessor and creates a somehow even more terrifying cinematic experience that’s easily one of the best of the year.
The film was released on Oct. 18 and has a runtime of 127 minutes. “Smile 2” is an R-rated psychological horror, mystery thriller film that follows fictional popstar Skye Riley as she begins experiencing horrifying events while also working toward a new world tour.
“Smile 2” is an unnerving watch in the best way and finds many ways to scare a viewer. With a great mix of jump scares and creepy imagery, it keeps one on the edge of their seat throughout.
Some more bright spots include its cinematography and sound. Lighting is used perfectly, with creepy entities hiding in shadows and around every turn. Many times, horror movies overuse jump scares. Although “Smile 2” has a lot of them, they are successful nearly every time. Even if someone can predict when one is coming, the perfectly timed sharp and loud music can make viewers flinch every time.
Many of its shots are original too, not often seen in horror movies. For example, the protagonist sees an entity behind her in a mirror at one point. When she turns around it’s not there, there are many of these creative shots in the film.
It wouldn’t be effective at all without convincing acting, and the cast of “Smile 2” delivers. Protagonist Skye Riley is played perfectly by Naomi Scott. Her character is already a broken and flawed person due to her dark past but becomes even more unhinged as the terrifying events begin to occur. Scott portrays an array of emotions flawlessly, making the character and film more believable and likeable.
The supporting cast is also great with actors such as Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Ray Nicholson and many more. Part of the “Smile” franchise is having a creepy smile, and each cast member does it perfectly.
Another reason it’s so great is the unpredictability of the plot. The ending is never obvious with many twists as well. Scott’s character’s sanity unravels as the entity continues to stalk her. She never knows what is real and what she is imagining, and neither does the viewer. Even after the credits roll, many questions will remain.
“Smile 2” is a terrifying and unnerving experience with plenty of effective jump scares and creepy imagery. It’s sure to always keep viewers on the edge of their seat. It is easily one of the best horror movies of the year, and maybe even one of the better psychological horror movies of all time.
