It’s the Last Thing You’ll See.
It’s the Last Thing You’ll See.
Director Parker Finn expands on the lore of Smile, crafting an enthralling sequel that uses celebrity culture and the pop music scene to amplify horror. Building upon the original’s chilling foundation, Smile 2 increases tension through skillful pacing, brilliant performances, and disturbing plot twists. From its heart-pounding opening to its adrenaline-fueled conclusion, the film delivers non-stop thrills and guarantees a wild ride.
Smile 2 takes the franchise to new heights, opening with Kyle Gallner’s return as Joel in an intense, one-take scene that seamlessly provides continuity to the film’s roots. Gallner’s screen time is limited but he makes a lasting impact, delivering a memorable scene that cements his scream king status. We are then introduced to Skye Riley, expertly brought to life by Naomi Scott, a complex and relatable protagonist whose tragic downward spiral into madness is both captivating and unsettling. Pop sensation Skye Riley’s desperate struggle with her inner demons and the sinister ‘smile creature’ blurs the lines between reality and delusion, which amplifies the film’s unpredictable nature. Beyond Scott’s impressive range and vulnerability, Smile 2 blends intricate choreography, catchy music tracks and stylish wardrobe choices to add to the film’s fun factor. Lukas Gage’s brief but pivotal role kicks off the carnage and masterfully boosts tension.
From start to finish, Smile 2 keeps you on edge, while showcasing exceptional technical craftsmanship. The film’s NYC setting proves instrumental in propelling the plot, immersing viewers in the city’s energetic atmosphere (a feeling Scream VI lacked). Parker Finn once again teams up with cinematographer Charlie Sarroff to elevate suspense through progressive lighting, framing and camera angles. With his deliberate lighting choices and daring camera flips, Sarroff generates a creepy mood throughout while also highlighting the energy of Skye Riley’s performance scenes. A particularly terrifying sequence features Skye’s apartment invaded by dancers sporting devilish smiles, a great example of the film’s eerie impact. Additionally, the use of gore and violence is uncompromising and strategically employed to amplify the story and guarantee a visceral reaction from the audience.
Both frightening and fun, Smile 2 triumphantly surpasses its predecessor, delivering lively entertainment, impactful characterization, and a vibrant atmosphere. Although the film’s distinction between reality and fiction becomes ambiguous towards its conclusion, and a slightly tighter edit (preferably to the two-hour mark) would have benefited the pacing, these are minor gripes in an otherwise thrilling experience. Outstanding cinematography, sound design and stellar performances (particularly by Naomi Scott) solidify its status as a successful horror sequel.
