Smile 2 Review

Smile 2 builds on the unsettling premise of its predecessor and takes the franchise in bold, emotionally resonant directions. With a gripping performance by Naomi Scott and an expanded exploration of trauma, addiction, and fame, Parker Finn’s follow-up delivers a sequel that not only stands tall but arguably surpasses the original.

The story shifts focus to Skye Riley, a pop star navigating recovery after a devastating car accident and the loss of her boyfriend. Her comeback tour is derailed when she witnesses a horrifying public suicide, becoming the next victim of the sinister curse that torments its prey through terrifying visions and relentless psychological manipulation. Scott’s portrayal of Skye is the beating heart of this film. Her descent into fear and madness is both believable and heartbreaking, grounding the supernatural horror in a raw and human experience.

Smile 2 excels in expanding its scope while maintaining the intimate dread that made the first film a success. The narrative opens with a breathtaking, single-take sequence that sets the stage for the film’s intense energy. The camera work is dynamic and deliberate, immersing viewers in the characters’ unraveling psyches and elevating the horror to new heights. Finn’s direction is sharper this time, balancing character-driven moments with terrifying set pieces, including the standout “Smile Dancers” sequence — a masterclass in creative horror.

Visually, the sequel embraces a more vibrant and colorful aesthetic that contrasts starkly with the muted tones of the original. This shift not only reflects the glitzy world of Skye Riley’s stardom but also amplifies the horror when her reality begins to fracture. The film’s sound design deserves special mention, as it masterfully ratchets up tension and enhances every scare. While jump scares are still a key element, they are more cleverly executed, catching even seasoned horror fans off guard.

Thematically, Smile 2 dives into deeper waters, addressing fame, exploitation, and the isolation of living in the public eye. Skye’s struggle to maintain her image while grappling with internal and external horrors creates a poignant layer to the terror. Finn effectively uses the curse as a metaphor for the relentless pressure to suppress trauma and “just smile” for the sake of appearances. This thematic complexity adds emotional weight to the scares, making the film as thought-provoking as it is frightening.

Though Smile 2 is an improvement in many ways, it’s not without flaws. Some narrative threads, particularly involving the curse’s origins and Skye’s strained relationships, feel underdeveloped. The film also occasionally leans too heavily on exposition, which slows the pacing in its more contemplative moments. At just over two hours, it could have benefited from tighter editing, but the storytelling is engaging enough to keep viewers invested.

Smile 2 is a sequel that takes risks and largely succeeds in its ambition. Naomi Scott’s phenomenal performance, inventive horror sequences, and the film’s rich thematic undertones ensure it’s a standout entry in the genre. Fans of the original will appreciate the continuity, while newcomers can enjoy it as a standalone horror experience. By the time the credits roll, audiences will leave the theater thoroughly satisfied — and perhaps a little too scared to smile.