Smile 2, the much-anticipated sequel to Parker Finn’s 2022 breakout horror hit, broadens the scope of psychological terror while taking a chilling deep dive into the pressures and isolation of fame. Written and directed by Finn, the 2024 supernatural horror stars Naomi Scott as Skye Riley, a global pop superstar whose glamorous exterior hides a fractured psyche. As she prepares for a monumental world tour, Skye finds herself plagued by a series of increasingly disturbing and unexplainable events.
Joined by a talented ensemble cast, including Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, and Raúl Castillo, along with Kyle Gallner reprising his role from the original film, Smile 2 expertly builds on the unsettling foundations of its predecessor. Finn masterfully intertwines themes of trauma, fame, and the supernatural, creating a sequel that feels richer and more ambitious in scope.
Naomi Scott’s portrayal of Skye Riley is the film’s beating heart. She delivers a layered performance, capturing Skye’s transition from confident star to a woman consumed by fear and doubt. Scott portrays the character’s unraveling with haunting authenticity, making her descent into psychological torment both relatable and terrifying. The juxtaposition of Skye’s glitzy, high-profile life with the creeping horrors she faces enhances the film’s emotional weight, highlighting the profound loneliness and pressure that can accompany celebrity.
Parker Finn avoids the pitfalls of many horror sequels by refusing to simply rehash the original. Instead, he pushes the boundaries of the franchise’s premise, blending psychological horror with the disturbing realities of living in the public eye. The film uses its setting—the glamorous but isolating world of global fame—to amplify the terror, creating a uniquely unsettling atmosphere. Skye’s experiences feel both intensely personal and universally haunting, as the line between reality and nightmare becomes increasingly blurred.
The film’s pacing is another strength. From its slow-burning opening to its intense, gut-wrenching climax, Smile 2 keeps the audience on edge. Finn balances quieter, introspective moments with sudden, jarring scares, ensuring that the tension never fully subsides. The film’s cinematography and sound design further enhance the experience, with striking visuals and an eerie score that amplify the sense of dread.
What makes Smile 2 particularly memorable is its thematic depth. Beyond the jump scares and terrifying imagery, the film delves into profound questions about identity, trauma, and the cost of success. Skye’s battle with her inner demons serves as a poignant metaphor for the toll of suppressing past pain, making her story both a personal journey and a reflection on the darker side of fame.
While Smile 2 doesn’t stray far from the franchise’s core identity, it feels like a natural evolution. The supernatural horror elements are as potent as ever, but the emotional undercurrent gives the film a distinct resonance. Finn’s ability to blend visceral scares with psychological complexity solidifies his status as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary horror.
As the film reaches its climactic conclusion, it leaves viewers with a lingering sense of unease. The ending is both satisfying and thought-provoking, offering closure while leaving the door open for further exploration. Rated 4/5 by Cinema Spice Magazine, Smile 2 is an above-average horror experience that successfully balances scares with substance. It cements Parker Finn’s reputation as a filmmaker capable of crafting horror that resonates on both a visceral and emotional level, making Smile 2 a worthy addition to the franchise and a standout entry in modern psychological horror.