Smile 2 Review: A Masterclass in Elevated Horror That Keeps You Hooked

Horror films have a unique way of tapping into our deepest fears, and “Smile 2” takes this to a whole new level. Building upon the foundation laid by the first movie, this highly anticipated sequel delivers relentless tension, psychological depth, and edge-of-your-seat horror. It doesn’t just try to replicate the success of the original but enhances it, offering a terrifying yet deeply human story.

What Is Smile 2 About?

At the heart of Smile 2 is Skye Riley, played by the sensational Naomi Scott. Skye is a pop star on the verge of a major comeback after a traumatic year of rehab and healing. A car crash that took her famous boyfriend’s life left her physically scarred and emotionally drained. While sober and focused on returning to the stage, her comeback hits a horrifying speed bump when she witnesses a former acquaintance, Lewis (played by Lukas Gage), violently end his life an act that triggers a series of terrifying events.

Skye begins experiencing visions of eerily smiling people, much like the first movie’s protagonist. As her paranoia heightens, her grip on reality loosens, plunging her into a nightmarish world where no one can be trusted not even her own mind.

Expanding the Smile Universe

The first Smile introduced us to a supernatural entity that feeds on trauma, infecting people and spreading through witnesses to its gruesome displays of horror. In Smile 2, director Parker Finn digs deeper into this entity’s mythology, though not as much as one might hope. While the film introduces new elements and showcases the entity’s growing power, the mystery surrounding its origins remains largely unexplored. This decision keeps the terror intact but may leave viewers yearning for more concrete answers.

Nevertheless, the sequel pushes boundaries with more elaborate and frightening scenarios, including larger set pieces and surreal imagery that lingers long after the credits roll. Finn’s mastery of tension-building is on full display here, with jump scares that are effective without feeling cheap.

Naomi Scott Shines as Skye Riley

Naomi Scott’s performance is nothing short of remarkable. Skye Riley is a complex character a blend of vulnerability, fear, and a fierce will to survive. Scott handles the emotional rollercoaster with finesse, drawing viewers into Skye’s unravelling world. From the moments of sheer panic to her defiance in the face of terror, Scott’s portrayal cements her as a rising star in the horror genre.

One standout scene involves Skye surrounded by her backup dancers, all flashing unnervingly wide smiles. The tension and choreography make this sequence one of the most memorable horror moments of the year.

Technical Brilliance Elevates the Film

From a technical standpoint, Smile 2 outdoes its predecessor. Cinematographer Charlie Sarroff’s use of dynamic camera angles such as overhead shots and disorienting upside-down frames creates an atmosphere of unease that mirrors Skye’s descent into madness. The film’s visual language communicates just as much as its dialogue, making you feel as if you’re trapped in Skye’s disintegrating reality.

The film is also marked by its dark humour, offering a few moments of levity amid the horror. These comedic beats never undermine the tension but rather serve as a brief respite before the next scare. This delicate balance between humor and horror is a testament to Finn’s skill as both a writer and director.

The Power of Trauma in Smile 2

Like the first film, Smile 2 is steeped in themes of trauma and mental illness. Skye’s struggle is not just with a supernatural force but also with her own inner demons. The entity preys on her past pain, amplifying her guilt and fear until she’s unsure of what’s real. This psychological layer adds depth to the horror, making the film more than just a series of scares. It’s a reflection on how trauma can haunt us, taking on monstrous forms that are sometimes harder to confront than anything supernatural.

A Few Minor Flaws, But A Killer Finale

Despite all its strengths, Smile 2 isn’t without its shortcomings. At over two hours, the film could have benefited from tighter editing. Some scenes stretch on a bit too long, and the overuse of certain visual tricks such as the frequent camera flips can start to feel repetitive.

Additionally, the over-reliance on jump scares, while effective, might lose its edge for some viewers as the film progresses. The entity’s nature remains largely unexplored by the end, which may frustrate those seeking more answers. However, the final act of Smile 2 more than makes up for any pacing issues or unanswered questions. It’s intense, unpredictable, and leaves a lasting impression. You might think you know how it’s going to end, but the film still manages to surprise you.

Why Smile 2 Works: The Perfect Blend of Horror and Humanity

Smile 2 succeeds because it doesn’t just rely on cheap thrills or gore to scare its audience. The film builds tension through atmosphere, character development, and a creeping sense of dread that infects every scene. The horror is grounded in Skye’s emotional journey, making her terror feel palpable and real.

Director Parker Finn clearly understands that horror works best when it’s not just about the monster lurking in the shadows, but about the monsters within us the fears, regrets, and traumas that we try to bury. Smile 2 is a reflection of how those inner demons can manifest in the most horrifying ways.

Final Thoughts: A Worthy Sequel That Outshines the Original

In the crowded landscape of horror sequels, Smile 2 stands out for its willingness to take risks and build upon the foundation of the original. With a gripping lead performance from Naomi Scott, stunning cinematography, and a script that knows when to shock and when to let the tension simmer, Smile 2 is one of the best horror films of the year.

If you’re a fan of psychological horror with a supernatural twist, Smile 2 will leave you thoroughly satisfied and perhaps a little afraid to smile.

FAQs

Q: Is Smile 2 scarier than the first movie?
A: Yes, Smile 2 amps up the tension with bigger scares, more elaborate set pieces, and a deeper dive into psychological horror.

Q: Do I need to watch the first Smile to understand Smile 2?
A: While it’s helpful to watch the first movie for context, Smile 2 stands on its own and provides enough backstory to follow along without prior knowledge.

Q: How long is Smile 2?
A: The film runs slightly over two hours, which some may find a bit lengthy, though the suspenseful plot keeps the momentum going.

Q: Does Smile 2 answer questions about the entity?
A: Not entirely. While the film expands on the entity’s abilities, much of its origin and nature remains mysterious, leaving room for interpretation.

Q: Who steals the show in Smile 2?
A: Naomi Scott’s performance as Skye Riley is a standout. Her portrayal of a pop star unravelling under supernatural and emotional pressure is both captivating and chilling.

Q: Is there humour in Smile 2?
A: Yes, the film cleverly balances moments of dark humour with its intense scares, making for a well-rounded horror experience.