Catapulting you back into the sinister world of the evil entity, Smile 2 intertwines its iconic grin with the glitz and glamour of pop stardom. Director Parker Finn amplifies the horror by juxtaposing the relentless pressures of fame against a backdrop of supernatural dread, crafting a sequel that not only honors its predecessor but also ventures into bolder, more ambitious territory.
Naomi Scott delivers a compelling, wide-eyed performance as Skye Riley, a pop sensation on the brink of a comeback following a harrowing car accident that nearly claimed her life. Scott’s portrayal is both raw and riveting, capturing Skye’s descent into madness with a nuance that elevates the film’s psychological intensity. Her journey is a haunting exploration of the intersection between personal trauma and public scrutiny similar to those found in classics like Black Swan.
The film continues the tradition of unpredictable twists established by the original film. Just when you think you’ve unraveled the Smile Entity’s diabolical game, the story reveals a shocking mid-film revelation about Skye’s accident that reframes everything. The climax comes during a live concert, where a seemingly triumphant performance descends into chaos as the Smile Entity’s grip tightens in front of thousands of horrified fans.
Throughout the two hour and 12 minute runtime, cinematographer Charlie Sarroff employs a vibrant yet claustrophobic visual style, contrasting the dazzling allure of Skye’s public persona with the encroaching darkness of her private torment. The use of tight close-ups and disorienting camera angles mirrors Skye’s unraveling mental state, immersing viewers in her escalating paranoia. Cristobal Tapia de Veer’s pulsating score further amplifies the film’s unsettling atmosphere, blending electronic beats with haunting melodies that linger long after the credits roll.
While the film’s frenetic energy keeps you engaged, it also tends to sacrifice deeper character development for supporting characters like Gemma (Dylan Gelula) and Morris (Peter Jacobson), whose arcs feel rushed or incomplete. Nonetheless, this movie was full of twists, jump scares, unexpected hallucinations and novel methods of dying that kept it fun and enticing to watch.
RHFC Rating: 7/10 🍿
