Review: ‘Smile 2’ ups the horror stakes (and the volume) with a pop star haunted by demons

As a seasoned cinephile with over two decades of film-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that “Smile 2” is a cinematic rollercoaster ride that leaves you breathless and craving more. The sequel surpasses its predecessor in every aspect, delivering a gripping narrative that’s as terrifying as it is thought-provoking.

In October this year, there’s plenty to get excited about, including a horror sequel that surpasses its original! Yes, you heard it right, “Smile 2” – the long-awaited follow-up to the unexpected 2022 blockbuster “Smile.” This time around, it’s even more thrilling, bloodier, and downright crazier than the first installment. And guess what? It also manages to convey a thought-provoking message amidst all those chattering teeth!

Following the manner in which writer-director Parker Finn critically explored the popular horror-movie trope of psychological trauma in “Smile,” he has now shifted his focus to more intricate symbolism for his sequel. Additionally, the sinister yet intelligent concept of the “smile demon” is expanded significantly. In this new narrative, rather than a therapist contracting an infectious form of PTSD from a patient, it’s a renowned pop star named Skye Riley (played by Naomi Scott), who grapples with her personal problems, that becomes infected. The source of the infection isn’t a patient but a drug dealer, Lewis (portrayed by Lukas Gage), who received it from the last film’s final host in a daring single-take opening scene.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but imagine myself stepping into the limelight, much like Finn does in this scenario. When we move this project onto a public figure with immense visibility, it offers an opportunity to perform on a grander scale. This isn’t just about singing and dancing; it’s about staging extravagant musical sequences, capturing behind-the-scenes drama, depicting public breakdowns, the intense fan adoration, and the hidden struggles within Skye’s opulent golden prison.

In a series of extended shots, Finn and Sarroff skillfully direct scenes where the camera moves fluidly from one side to another, capturing both the origins and consequences, fear and response. This demanding role called for an exceptional performance from Scott, who delivered admirably as the tormented Skye. The portrayal was devoid of any self-indulgence, teetering on the brink of hysteria throughout the extended two-hour runtime. Scott was tasked with delving into Skye’s tumultuous past as an uncontrollable addict and expressing her disintegrating present state amidst the terrifying invasive visions she received from this sinister grinning entity.

A significant portion of the movie shows Scott portraying Skye, as she experiences chilling visions that echo her deepest fears: encounters with stalker fans, the gruesome car accident involving her boyfriend (Ray Nicholson), her close friends turning against her. All these traumatic events are presented with a forced smile, characterized by lowered chin, raised eyes, and bared teeth. It’s noteworthy that most of these frightening supernatural incidents happen in public places: during rehearsals, award ceremonies, meet-and-greets, or while she’s being photographed by camera phones wherever she goes. This public exposure makes the impending demonic possession even more perilous. Given that the “parasite” requires its new host to witness the death of the previous one after a week of control, Skye’s high-profile lifestyle certainly exposes her to numerous potential witnesses.

In the chilling sequel “Smile 2,” Finn masterfully weaves a tale where humor serves as a haunting backdrop, yet he treats the horror metaphor of the smile demon as an embodiment of addiction with unwavering sincerity. Skye’s struggles with addiction and mental health become the demon’s canvas, wreaking havoc on those around her. Determined to regain control, Skye is prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice if it means saving others from this relentless entity. As a movie critic, I found myself captivated by Finn’s ability to blend horror and emotional depth in such an intriguing manner.

In a surprising turn, the heavier themes don’t hinder the cheesy excitement found in “Smile 2”. Scott, who is present throughout the movie, delivers an intense and humorous portrayal that seems to tear her soul apart – literally and figuratively. While she has starred in notable reboots such as “Aladdin”, “Charlie’s Angels” and “Power Rangers”, this role appears to be a significant breakthrough for her, showcasing an expanded range reminiscent of Isabelle Adjani’s intense and unstable performance in “Possession”. It might seem impious to compare the two, but there is a faint echo of that wild energy here.

In this revised version, Finn’s jump-scares are more intense and impactful compared to before, ensuring a continuous stream of popcorn flying. The audio design is loud and unsettling, the hallucinations are increasingly intricate, and the physical horrors are even gorier and unnerving. However, during the third act, things become somewhat over-the-top and chaotic, but Finn skillfully brings everything under control to deliver a fitting conclusion for one of the most exhilarating horror experiences of the year.

Katie Walsh is a Tribune News Service film critic.

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2024-10-18 22:01