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Title: Smile 2
MPA Rating: R
Director: Parker Finn
Starring: Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage
Runtime: 2 hrs 7 mins

What It Is: Following the events of the first Smile, we’re given a new chapter. This time, pop star Skye Riley (Scott) has been through a lot. Her once-reckless behavior led to a car accident and the tragic death of her movie star boyfriend.

Now, nearly a year later, she’s stepping back into the limelight—but with a whole new set of problems. The man supplying her with the drugs she relies on just killed himself right in front of her. And now, she’s caught the titular affliction. As she spirals, her grip on reality begins to slip.

What We Think: I HATED the first Smile. It lacked anything to set it apart from similar (and better) movies.

This sequel, however, has a lot going for it. Naomi Scott as Skye Riley is truly channeling something special. Unlike the character she’s playing, she has a firm grip on everything—she knows exactly who Skye is and how to get the most mileage out of her.

Parker Finn also seems far more confident here, both as a writer and director, and that confidence shines through in spades.

That said, the one thing holding this back is the runtime—127 minutes is way too long for a horror film with this concept. For reference, It Follows runs a tight 100 minutes, and Talk to Me is just 94. There were definitely places where this could have been trimmed to improve pacing and make the overall experience more engaging.

Our Grade: B-, Aside from a glaring overstay of its welcome, this is a really solid piece of horror filmmaking. Not only is it dangerously well-acted, but it’s also a fun time at the movies. Is it predictable? Yes, slightly. But if we’re being honest, most horror films are.

See this. It’s a weird little surprise—in the best way.

 

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