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Smile 2 Review: A Thrilling, Elevated Sequel

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Smile 2, directed and written once again by Parker Finn, follows his unexpected success from the first film. This time, Naomi Scott stars as a pop singer recovering from a traumatic and very public event. As she starts to rebuild her life, she realizes that the same curse from the original movie is haunting her, with eerie smiling figures threatening not just her career, but her very survival.

The original Smile made a huge splash, surprising audiences and even Paramount, as it was originally intended for streaming before its theatrical release led to massive box office success. With the sequel, Finn had the chance to expand on his vision, and he truly delivers. Smile 2 not only surpasses its predecessor, but it also intensifies the feeling of paranoia and dread.

Naomi Scott’s performance is a standout, offering the best work of her career so far. The film puts her through emotionally demanding scenes, often in close-up shots, and she rises to the challenge, giving a gripping portrayal of a woman on the edge.

One noticeable improvement in Smile 2 is the production quality. While the first film was well-directed, this sequel feels like it’s on a whole new level, especially in terms of cinematography and direction. The opening scene alone is one of the most impressive I’ve seen this year, setting the tone for the rest of the film.

This movie is also surprisingly gory. While it’s not quite as extreme as something like Terrifier 3, it doesn’t shy away from showing the horrifying effects of the curse. The violence is visceral and brutal, driving home the deadly stakes for Scott’s character and those around her.

Parker Finn continues to play with jump scares, a signature from the first film, but here they are more balanced and impactful. One scene in particular, where the protagonist is lying in bed, is a perfect example of how well these moments are executed.

The film keeps viewers questioning what’s real and what’s imagined, pulling us deeper into the main character’s mental breakdown. Whether she’s on stage, backstage, or at home, unsettling visions constantly torment her, creating an atmosphere of paranoia that’s palpable throughout.

Smile 2 draws inspiration from classic psychological thrillers, most notably Perfect Blue, the anime film by Satoshi Kon about a pop star who spirals into madness. While Smile 2 stands on its own, it’s clear that Kon’s influence runs through it, especially in the way Scott’s character sees reflections of herself that lead to violent consequences. It’s a nod to a beloved classic without being a direct copy.

In conclusion, Smile 2 is an excellent sequel, surpassing the first film in many ways. It’s scarier, visually stunning, and driven by a powerful lead performance from Naomi Scott. With well-timed scares, an engaging plot, and a chilling opening scene, this is a horror movie fans won’t want to miss.

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