Smile 2 (2024)

Since when do horror sequels improve on the original? Since writer-director Parker Finn expanded the twisted world of Smile with an even more deranged, revolting follow-up filtered through the horrors of pop stardom. Similar to the kind of delusions that Skye suffers at the hand of this monster, I want to live in a world where horror actors get the dues they deserve because Naomi Scott gives an award-worthy performance here and I am very much ready to have that conversation. Speaking of, I am also very much ready for Smile 3 which promises to be even more horrifying than what's come before.

If you thought Smile was interesting and original and creepy, then Smile 2 will knock your socks off. Naomi Scott is phenomenal as the lead, bringing to life a character that is worthy of our sympathy but complex enough to challenge our moral compass. The scares are bigger, the gore is more vile, and the story is far more elaborate and far-reaching this time around. If you enjoyed modern horrors like Barbarian, It Follows, and Longlegs you'll find Smile 2 delightfully dark and very, very entertaining. That final scene still haunts me to this day.