***SPOILER***
Smile was a surprise hit in the genre, and sequels often carry the risk of losing what made the original special. I’m happy to report that Smile 2 avoids that pitfall entirely—it’s a strong, well-crafted follow-up.
Naomi Scott delivers a breathtaking performance, taking us on an emotional roller coaster … not through coercion, but through magnetism. She’s so captivating that before you realize it, you’re completely immersed, traveling through her experiences as if levitated out of your seat. It’s absolutely phenomenal work.
And of course, the smiles. The sinister grins that haunted the first film are just as unsettling here, sending chills down your spine with almost every eerie appearance.
What truly sets the Smile franchise apart, though, is how it embodies The Monstrosity’s process: offering just enough hope to keep you hanging on, only to extract it in excruciating fashion before delivering its grim final blow. It’s an unnerving yet masterfully executed ride from start to finish.
If you loved the first Smile, this sequel will leave you grinning in terror.
[Update] I totally forgot to mention the EP album, it is so good! Personally, I can’t get enough of Blood on White Satin, it’s been on repeat for days.
