By: Emery Curtis

Graphics Editor

The horrifying sequel to Smile 1 is finally in theaters. Directed by Parker Finn, this continuation of the already nerve-wracking movie was great for Halloween. If you can handle constant stress and overwhelming jumpscares then Smile 2 is for you. Fair warning, I have not ever screamed more in my entire life. This movie is definitely a worthy sequel to the first and surprised me, as I went in with low expectations.

The main character Skye Riley, played by Naomi Scott, is a rising pop star who comes back into the media after suffering a terrible car accident that killed her co-star. Trying to recover from the trauma she experienced and her drug usage, she announces a tour to try and get back on track after her mental health went downhill. Unfortunately, this makes her the perfect victim for the demon that follows her through smiling strangers. Using a pop star main character in association with the smile curse is brilliant due to the stress the character faces in her day-to-day life along with tying in the fact that she is admired and viewed by so many people and has to hide the terror she endures. Skye Riley seems like an actual pop star, considering Parker Finn gathered inspiration from real-life female celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, and Tate McRae, including the album covers, the posters, photoshoots, platinum plaques, the choreography. When watching her performance, it was clear that Skye’s character is definitely more inspired by Lady Gaga due to her short hair and crazy outfits. 

I thoroughly enjoyed the visuals in this movie. Whether it was the terrifying demon hidden in the background or the captivating lights and choreography of the music performances, I couldn’t look away, even when I really wanted to. The amount of plot twists made sure to keep me on the edge of my seat. I am especially impressed with the incredible job Scott did. Her acting portrayed a scary descent into madness. Her screams are very thrilling and elevate the fright factor.

I like how we get more insight into the demon’s personality. For example, the curse messes with and taunts Skye more throughout the film. I also like that Smile 2 keeps the creature’s origins mysterious. Many horror movies try to explain the haunting entity that always ruins the scary unknown behind the character. Additionally, explanations normally feel rushed and lazy, so not having one in this movie was refreshing. 

Although the movie was pretty exhausting to watch, with all of the slap-in-the-face horrors, I can appreciate how it is like a roller coaster ride; once it gets started, it doesn’t give you a break. Even in those brief moments where I became bored with the gimmick, I admit that the film quickly pulled me back in by escalating the horror in interesting ways that subverted my expectations. There were even some funny moments, which I wasn’t expecting as there was a lot of dry humor. I’d say that in a time where horror content is hit or miss; this movie hits and lived up to, if not passed my expectations.