The new horror sequel of the year, Smile 2, has yet to take over social media once again, following its predecessor, Smile 1. This thriller was released on October 18, 2024, and was directed by Parker Finn. As the director of Smile 1, he incorporated his past inspirations and ideas into this brand-new sequel. A trigger warning to all new fans, this movie is full of gore, killing, and more.
For those who didn’t watch the first Smile movie, the general concept revolves around how trauma is passed from one character to character through a demon who feeds off their past hardships. Anyone who witnesses another commit an act that may cause trauma is then left with a curse which can only be broken by committing a violent act in front of someone else. An ordinary psychiatrist suffers the tragic consequences of the curse, as she witnesses one of her patients brutally committing suicide. Now, bearing the burden of the curse, she grows frantic finding a solution. However, nothing can beat the curse, as demonstrated by the sequel. Smile 2 delves into the old concept, but with brand new characters, and a brand new plot.
As soon as you step into the Smile 2, you’re met with a great deal of gore, jumpscares, and eerie music, really kickstarting the film. I knew immediately that I was in for an awesome ride.
The movie revolves around pop star Skye Riley, who prepares to embark on a new world tour just after her boyfriend died in a car accident just a year ago. She tries to regain her life after a period of drugs, alcohol, and addiction overtakes her. Back in the present, Skye visits her old friend, Lewis Fregoli, and shortly notices his strange behavior. He suddenly collapses, then gets up, appearing to be possessed by some sort of entity. Then, as the curse goes, he brutally kills himself, passing the curse down to Skye. Within just a few days, she begins experiencing unexplainable events.
Regarding specific film components, everything from the greatly timed cinematography to the emotional acting impressed me. Not only was the music properly used to build suspense throughout the movie, but it also brought forth the internal emotions of the main character. The way the movie was filmed is impressive, with many transitions, scene cuts, and character features. This added to the unpredictability of the movie and also made it very entertaining to watch.
As a whole, this movie made me sick to the stomach, but in a good way. It explores themes of mental illness and trauma, and the idea of inheriting mental illness and walking down a path you dread. These themes are very prominent throughout the entire movie, which makes you put yourself in Riley’s shoes. In this case, it was clear the director was aiming to address the growing issue of the music industry, indicating that success doesn’t always lead to happiness. I am shocked beyond belief at how the director was able to perfectly place elements in every scene, such as the foreshadowing. Smile 2 was all so wonderfully timed, and I could really see the director’s intentions throughout the film. And don’t even get me started on the ending. No spoilers ahead, but watching the ending had plastered a smile on my face.
Despite Smile 2’s consistent positive reviews, many internet credits including Reddit users wonder whether a sequel was really necessary and whether it outshines Smile 1. It depends. If you’re not into gore and unnecessary jump scares, then this movie might not be for you. But it’s rare to encounter a movie that digs so deep into common universal themes, while still maintaining its creative plot. I would say, this sequel was entirely necessary, as the curse is unstoppable, and wouldn’t just end within one movie. Some critics say Smile 2 is better than Smile 1 in terms of plot structure, cinematography, and acting. I would have to agree with them here. The overall flow of the plot and film production was so outstanding, I rate it a 10/10.
