Smile 2 creeps to an impressive $2.5m at the box office

WEB DESK: The disturbing sequel to horror movie “Smile” creeped into the box office with an impressive $2.5 million on its opening weekend.

The chilling sequel was directed and written by Parker Finn, whose direction deserves highest praise for delivering actual horror in an era of non-so-scary, jump scares-loaded Conjuring cinematic universe and the like.

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Released on Friday, Smile 2 delves deeper into the sinister world of the psychological terror that was Smile.

The sequel follows Skye Riley (Naomi Scott), a pop star that becomes ensnared by unwanted fame and the malevolent “smile demon”.

The narrative unfolds with a chilling opening that revealed the fate of the previous movie’s protagonist Rose’s ex, Joel (Kyle Gallner).

The movie then immediately plunges into Skye’s tumultuous life. As the singer prepares for a highly awaited tour, she is besieged  by a  series of increasingly disturbing events that force her to confront the demon stalking her.

Horror has always been known as the genre that explores taboo and other serious themes that most moviemakers shy away from. From postpartum depression in Babaduke to the supposed child abuse in the famous horror classic “Exorcism”, Smile 2 is no different.

The movie explores the dark side of fame in modern, globally digitised and connected era. Smile 2 doesn’t shy away from delving deep into the psychological toll fame takes on a celebrity.

One scene in particular shows a nervous, exhausted Skye offering to sign the shirt of supposed young fan, as the smiling demon smiles unnervingly.

The scene serves as a clear yet subtle example of issues famous celebrities face in public, not given a moment of respite to even walk around in public without being harassed for an autograph or picture.

Skye also has to deal with the never-ending expectations of the public, as she deals with a demanding career and a complete lack of personal life. Her every move critiqued, and nothing she does will ever be enough for the critical eye of the public.

Parker Finn’s spin on the usual horror tropes aim to catch the audience off guard, presenting a fresh even if familiar horror experience.

With a reported budget of $28 million, the director and his creative team conjured a visually chilling portrayal.

Praise in particular must be levied on the camerawork, as the lens alone conveys the main character’s inner emotions with every unique angle, close up and other shots.  

While the audience has come to expect post-credits scene, Smile 2 does not offer one. It respects its audiences’ intelligence enough to end the movie on a clear though subtle hint: the potential for the smile demon to wreak its terror on humans exponentially.

With a smaller runtime as is quintessential for most horror movies, Smile 2, nonetheless, garnered mostly positive reviews from critics and audience alike.

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So grab that popcorn, take along your friend and enjoy the thrill.