Bloodier, Scarier: Smile 2 Surpasses All Expectations!

This Monday, we had the privilege of attending the premiere of Smile 2, organized by Paramount Pictures France. This new installment of the horror franchise, now in theaters, promises an intense and thrilling experience. Through a plot that will undoubtedly keep you on the edge of your seat, the film is filled with moments of tension and the famous ‘jump scares’ that contributed to the success of its predecessor. After being captivated by the first film, we were eager to discover this new story, and here is our take on this second chapter, which proves to be just as engaging.

In the first Smile film, we were immersed in a dark story where a malevolent entity was passed from host to host, taking the form of a terrifying, grotesque smile. It would infiltrate the minds of its victims, causing hallucinations and gradually driving them towards madness. Once completely consumed from within, the victim would end up taking their own life in front of another person, thus allowing the curse to spread to a new host. This first installment focused on a more intimate and familial storyline, where a psychologist became the prey. In Smile 2, the story takes a more intriguing turn, unfolding just a few days after the initial events. This time, the curse targets a much more public figure: a global pop star.

In this second chapter, it’s Skye Riley, portrayed by Naomi Scott, who finds herself at the center of the story. A complex and troubled character, Skye is trying to rebuild her career and health after a drug-related accident that tragically took the life of her boyfriend, Paul, a popular actor. Just as she begins to recover, the curse strikes her, passed on by her dealer, Lewis, played by Lukas Gage. For the singer, a true nightmare begins. How can she face this growing horror while trying to convince those around her that she hasn’t relapsed into drug use? Her battle is all the more difficult as she must confront the skepticism of her mother, Elizabeth (played by Rosemarie DeWitt), who also acts as her manager, and her loyal assistant Joshua (Miles Gutierrez-Riley). Between media pressure and suspicion, Skye will have to find a way to prove to them that the threat looming over her is real, and not a product of her past demons, before it’s too late.

Smile 2 sent chills through the audience at the Grand Rex in Paris during its premiere, captivating viewers with an oppressive and terrifying atmosphere. The film immediately plunges us into anxiety, quickly attaching us to Skye, the central character brilliantly portrayed by Naomi Scott. Her struggle against the malevolent entity haunting her is both poignant and disturbing, and through the visuals, we constantly feel as if she is being watched, enhancing the immersion. As the story progresses, we witness Skye’s descent, and the evolution of her state sends shivers down our spines. To make this downward spiral even more realistic, the creative team combined visual and practical effects. Paying close attention to detail, the team consulted medical experts, including dentists and surgeons, to accurately depict the physical effects of an unnaturally stretched jaw, further amplifying the palpable horror of this second installment. An undeniable success, as evidenced by the screams and expressions of disgust that echoed throughout the theater during the screening.

To make the story more believable, the film’s team had to create a true pop icon in the character of Skye Riley. Drawing inspiration from major stars like Sia, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga, the creators worked tirelessly to shape a megastar from scratch. This involved creating merchandising, hit-worthy songs, and, of course, breathtaking outfits. Whether for her stage performances or her appearance at the gala, Skye’s costumes are stunning, reminiscent of celebrities like Taylor Swift. The choreography, an essential element in establishing Skye in the pop world, was designed by Célia Rowlson-Hall. Thanks to her coaching, Naomi Scott truly transformed into an international star during the filming. To complete this immersion, Skye Riley’s first music video is already available, while the incredibly well-orchestrated soundtrack can be streamed on music platforms. A total immersion into the world of a pop star—albeit fictional, but as real as it gets.

We were particularly impressed by how the supporting roles are woven into the plot of Smile 2. Whether it’s Elizabeth, the overprotective ‘momager’ played by Rosemarie DeWitt, or Joshua, Skye’s loyal assistant, every secondary character finds their place and contributes to the film’s progression. They play a crucial role as a fragile barrier between the madness engulfing Skye and the reality surrounding her. Lukas Gage, terrifying in the role of the dealer Lewis, adds an extra layer of dread, while Gemma, Skye’s former best friend, portrayed with precision, offers an illusion of stability and comfort amidst the chaos—at least on the surface. The return of Joel, played by Kyle Gallner, firmly anchors the plot in continuity with the first film, providing the audience with a thread to follow and understand where they are in the story.

Smile 2 is not without its flaws, however. One frustrating aspect is the lack of explanation regarding the malevolent entity that spreads terror. We learn nothing about its origin, its motivations, or how to stop it, leaving a sense of incompleteness for viewers craving answers.

Additionally, it feels like starting over, as Skye, unlike the characters from the first film, knows nothing about the ‘chain’ of the curse. We have to wait for her to gradually discover the rules of the game, particularly with the help of the character Morris, which slightly slows down the plot. However, what could be seen as a flaw also becomes a strength: it allows for a detailed exploration of the rise of madness and its insidious impact on Skye.

Smile 2 offers viewers terrifying scenes that will leave a lasting impression. Among them, the scene we’ll nickname “Red Light, Green Light” with the dancers is especially nerve-wracking. In a narrow hallway, the dancers press against one another, staring at Skye with that frightening smile, creating unbearable tension. The film is packed with jump scares and is noticeably gorier than the first installment. From the very first minutes, we are drawn into the plot and engulfed by the oppressive atmosphere, delivering all the chills we need for the month. Naomi Scott, in the role of Skye Riley, gives an outstanding performance, making her character both vulnerable and determined.

In summary, Smile 2 is a success. Director Parker Finn had promised more fear, more blood, and more jump scares than in the first film, and he has delivered. The shift to an age restriction of 16 and over, whereas the first film was restricted to 12 and over, underscores this intensification of horror and gore.

‘SMILE 2‘ IS NOW IN THEATERS!