Entertainment Blog #305 | Smile 2 [2024] : The first One was Better Though...

It's been only like 4 weeks since the release of Smile 2 movie but recently, I found a KORSUB copy. And I was able to download it before it was removed. In this year, there are two trends in movies. One is an Old woman & Younger boy romance. And the other one is Celebrity character-based movies. And this one follows the 2nd trend.

Smile 2 explores the psychological madness that often comes with fame, particularly in the music industry. The film’s main character, Skye Riley, a global pop star, faces the pressures of public life while struggling with her traumatic past. This narrative highlights celebrities' real-life experiences navigating the fine line between public personality and personal struggles, making it feel audiences are familiar with the darker sides of fame. The supernatural elements serve as a metaphor for the internal demons many face, showing how other's expectations can warp one’s reality.

Smile 2 is a Supernatural horror movie that was Released on October 18, 2024. It was directed by Parker Finn, who also directed the original Smile in 2022. The film features a thrilling performance by Naomi Scott as Skye Riley, alongside a supporting cast that includes Lukas Gage and Rosemarie DeWitt. Following its predecessor's success, Smile 2 aims to expand on its themes rather than just duplicate them. With a runtime of over two hours, it seeks to delve deeper into the #psychological #horror genre while maintaining the unsettling atmosphere established in the first film.

The plot begins with Skye preparing for her comeback tour after a horrible car accident that claimed her boyfriend's life in a very dramatic way. As she tries to reclaim her place in the spotlight, she witnesses a violent incident of her old friend Lewis, who becomes the latest victim of an evil curse that forces individuals to confront their deepest fears. This event triggers a series of disturbing visions for Skye, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination as she encounters twisted smiles and haunting reminders of her past. The tension escalates as Skye's mental state deteriorates under the weight of fame and grief, leading to moments that are both terrifying and thought-provoking.

As the story unfolds, Skye faces surreal incidents. She feds up with visions of her deceased boyfriend and monstrous imaginations of her insecurities. The film masterfully plays with audience expectations, leaving viewers questioning whether these experiences are supernatural or products of her broken mind. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a ruthless environment that keeps viewers on edge without exposing too much too soon.

What sets Smile 2 apart from other horror films is its unique blend of psychological drama and supernatural horror within the context of celebrity culture. Unlike typical horror narratives that isolate characters in eerie backgrounds, Skye's struggles unfold in public spaces filled with fans and industry people, amplifying the tension as she battles both external pressures and internal demons. This approach not only intensifies the horror but also serves as a comment on how society modifies personal trauma for entertainment.

Critical responses to Smile 2 are generally positive. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 7.2/10 based on over 31K votes. Rotten Tomatoes reflects a more cautious reception with a score around 70%, indicating that while many appreciate its ambition and performances, some feel it falls prey to genre clichés. Metacritic offers a score of 65, suggesting generally favorable reviews but highlighting inconsistencies in performance. Google users have rated it positively at around 85%, showcasing an overall likeness among audiences.

With an estimated budget of $28 million, Smile 2 has performed well at the box office, grossing approximately $124 million worldwide within its opening weeks. This financial success underscores its appeal despite mixed critical reception. While Smile 2 offers a thrilling ride through psychological horror twisted with social commentary on fame and mental health, it occasionally slips into familiar sides that may deflect from its overall impact. It remains an engaging watch for horror enthusiasts and those intrigued by the complexities of celebrity culture.