Film sequels often face an uphill battle to meet the expectations of their predecessor. There is a delicate balance between matching the quality of the original while raising the stakes; it’s a rare feat for films to not only meet but exceed the expectations of the original. “Smile 2,” the follow-up to the 2022 film “Smile,” does this beautifully, delivering a terrifying experience that honors and elevates both films.
The movie opens with a high-intensity action sequence featuring Joel, a main character from the first movie in the series whose fate was left ambiguous.
“I thought I walked into the wrong theater at first,” Lambert junior Risha Mannam said. “The opening felt more like an action movie, but it was really good.”
This unexpected shift in tone is not just a gimmick; it resolves the previous film’s story in a way that cleverly ties into this film’s story in a satisfyingly clever moment. Moreover, what makes this introduction so thrilling, apart from it’s suspenseful action sequence, is director Parker Finn’s excellent cinematography. The entire opening sequence is shot in what appears to be one single fluid take. This camera work showcases an immense amount of skill behind the scenes and gives the viewer a visually smooth and technically impressive result.
Beyond this, Naomi Scott’s portrayal of this movie’s popstar protagonist Sky Riley brings a relatable and emotional aspect to the movie that makes it stand out among other films.
“I thought the acting was really good,” Mannam said. “[Scott] did a really good job, it felt like the character was actually feeling what was happening to her.”
Scott, who previously acted in popular movies “Lemonade Mouth” and “The Martian,” brings a masterful performance in this movie. She showcases both her acting and singing talents while playing the role of a haunted popstar.
Many of director Parker Finn’s works, like the short film “Laura Hasn’t Slept,” explore the human mind and how it can be distorted in film. “Smile 2” expands on this premise in an interesting way by playing with what is real and what is fake.
“It keeps you guessing what’s real and what’s fake the whole time,” Mannam said. “I left the theater thinking about what was even real the whole time.”
Finn’s clever—and sometimes cruel—storytelling keeps the viewer on their toes, creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking experience that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll, leaving you questioning the nature of reality itself.
Ultimately, “Smile 2” not only meets the high expectations set by its successful predecessor but also boldly makes a bold splash in the horror genre. With innovative storytelling, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances — especially from Naomi Scott — the film masterfully crafts a gripping narrative. Director Parker Finn has crafted a sequel that respects the original while fearlessly expanding its themes, making it a must-see for both fans and newcomers alike. As the credits roll, audiences are left with chills and a profound sense of intrigue, ensuring that “Smile 2” will be remembered as a standout entry in contemporary horror cinema.
