Smile 2 Is Terrifying But It’s Also Pretty Funny

Smile 2 Is Terrifying But It's Also Pretty Funny

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I’ve seen more than my fair share of horror films. And let me tell you, Smile 2 is a rollercoaster ride that keeps you on your toes. The balance between terror and humor is expertly executed, making it one of the best horror movies I’ve watched in recent years.


Editor’s Note: This article contains spoilers for Smile 2.

Key Takeaways

  • Smile 2 offers humor alongside horror, striking a balance that keeps the audience on edge & entertained.
  • Intentional comic relief provided by characters like Gemma & Joshua adds laughter amid the mayhem.
  • Despite some unintentionally goofy moments, Smile 2 succeeds in delivering the necessary tension for a great horror film.

The main intention of “Smile 2” seems to be creating an overwhelming fear in viewers who watch this movie. An interesting detail often overlooked about horror films is that constant tension isn’t always effective; there need to be moments when the audience feels safe, only for the director – in this case, Parker Finn – to surprise them when they least expect it. This unexpectedness enhances the impact of the jump scares. In summary, laughter and tension work together like a powerful combination.

The sequel to “Smile” seems poised to become a notable addition to the horror genre. The film skillfully delivers all the elements desired in this type of movie, causing viewers to hide behind their hands during particularly frightening or disgusting scenes. Audiences safely seated will still jump at unexpected moments, not just due to sudden loud noises that startle them. Theaters will be filled with crowds eager to see “Smile 2“, and it’s also garnering positive criticism. One of the reasons for its success is the director’s ability to strike a perfect balance between horror and humor, making it an engaging watch for audiences.

Skye Riley And Her Ride Or Die Friend In Smile 2

Smile 2 Is Terrifying But It's Also Pretty Funny

One reason “Smile 2” manages to blend humor and horror is because certain characters are deliberately written as stereotypes. This is done intentionally for multiple reasons, one being that these characters are primarily viewed through the perspective of Skye’s mind. This becomes particularly evident when Gemma appears on the scene.

Spoilers for Smile 2 are below.

When character Gemma enters the plot, it is already established that she was close friends with Skye prior to Skye’s downfall into drug and alcohol abuse, leading to a tragic accident. In the initial stages of the movie, Skye’s mother hints at reaching out to Gemma as someone who could provide stability for Skye. Eventually, this happens and their friendship is rekindled.

Smile 2
StarringNaomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Raúl Castillo, Dylan Gelula, Ray Nicholson and Kyle Gallner
Written ByParker Finn
Directed ByParker Finn

The events culminate in the most impactful conversation in the entire film. This occurs when Skye, having reached a breaking point after a massive fallout, flees from the wellness center or similar institution she was confined in. Her flight is prompted by the fact that she has just killed her mother with fragments of her bedroom mirror and is covered in blood. This aspect is crucial because it’s a situation that would typically disgust most people, or at least make them hesitate before joining a friend wielding a gun, given the apparent trouble they might have caused.

In the escalating chaos of Smile 2, Skye climbs into a vehicle she’s about to pilfer, with Gemma quickly joining her in the driver’s seat. Skye then advises Gemma to keep a low profile and avoid the drama surrounding the popular musician. And just as the absurdity reaches new heights, Gemma declares, “I’m your ride-or-die girl,” delivering it with a spot-on vocal fry tone. This moment is hilarious not only because of the line itself but also due to the incongruous behavior of a celebrity entourage member and the absurd situation unfolding in the story.

For the remainder of the film, Joshua, Skye’s devoted assistant, provides amusing interludes through his impeccably sycophantic character. This flawless demeanor is due to his readiness to perform any task for Skye. A conversation between them ensues, where they debate Skye’s preferred beverage, happening as she attempts to keep Joshua away from the room containing her deceased mother.

The Unintentional Humor of Smile 2

In parts of Smile 2, it’s uncertain whether the humor is deliberate or so absurd that viewers feel compelled to laugh. For instance, there’s a scene where a woman is sent flying onto a table when she attempts to console Skye during her meltdown while delivering a speech. Additionally, there’s a young girl with an unsettling smile that is intended to be unsettling.

In the end, if the intention behind this scene wasn’t to be predominantly amusing, then Parker Finn may have made an error in judgment. Inside Skye’s apartment, numerous individuals, with smiles on their faces, seem to be engaged in an impromptu dance down the hallway. It appears as though a choreographed improv troupe thought this would be visually impressive. However, it falls short of that mark and instead comes off as rather comical-looking. Audiences seem to have difficulty not finding it humorous.

As a devoted viewer, I must say, even when certain scenes in “Smile 2” may not land quite as intended, they effectively accomplish their purpose. They create an atmosphere where viewers let down their defenses and unwind. But then, just like that, the rug is swiftly taken away, and the tension returns with a vengeance. Despite some scenes potentially being misinterpreted, it adds an eerie depth to a horror film that embodies all the captivating aspects of the classics.

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2024-10-25 19:03