Smile 2: Bigger, Scarier, and Flashier, But Does It Deliver? – Review

‘Smile 2’ is a glitzy sequel that cranks up the scares but stumbles.

If you thought the first Smile was terrifying, brace yourself—Smile 2 amplifies the fear, bringing back the haunting intensity that made the original such a hit. Director Parker Finn returns with a follow-up that takes everything fans loved about the first film and tries to crank it up to 11. While this sequel offers some genuine scares, clever camera work, and creativity, it struggles to maintain the same momentum throughout.

The film follows global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) as she prepares for a new world tour. But just as she’s ready to hit the stage, she’s plagued by terrifying and inexplicable events, pushing her to confront a dark past that threatens to unravel her life. Scott’s portrayal of a superstar caught between the pressures of fame and a supernatural force is commendable. Her performance brings depth to the character, keeping the film afloat even when the plot starts to waver.

It’s clear the budget for Smile 2 was much higher than the $17 million spent on the original, which went on to gross over $217 million. This sequel looks significantly more expensive, featuring grandiose dance and stadium scenes that add a layer of ultra-glam storytelling. However, while the increased budget allowed for more visually striking moments, it also led to a departure from the intimate horror that made the first film so effective.

Parker Finn’s direction still shines through with some great jump scares and impressive visual choices.

However, there’s a sense that studio influence may have pushed the film to aim bigger rather than scarier. The attempt to incorporate commentary on the pressures of celebrity life feels somewhat parallel to Britney Spears’ public struggles, but it ultimately misses the mark. The narrative would have benefited from a more grounded story. We’ve already seen the “pop star under pressure” trope in M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap, and Smile 2 doesn’t bring enough originality to that angle.

Another issue is the film’s attempt to explore the lore of the demonic spirit that haunts Skye.

While some background is provided, it doesn’t quite establish clear “rules” for the entity, leaving viewers with lingering questions—especially after an eerie opening scene with Kyle Gallner. The suspense also falters at times, with certain beats dragging on too long and becoming predictable.

Verdict

I give Smile 2 3 out of 5 stars. Despite its flaws, it delivers enough thrills to entertain horror fans, proving that sequels can be just as terrifying as the originals. Yet, with a narrative that feels overly ambitious and occasionally cheesy, it loses some of the eerie charm of its predecessor. I’d be content if this were the final installment in the Smile franchise. Read my review for the first Smile movie HERE.

Written and Directed by Parker Finn. Starring Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Ray Nicholson, Dylan Gelula, Raúl Castillo, and Kyle Gallner.

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