After the breathtaking success of "Smile" as a horror sensation in 2022, visionary writer-director Parker Finn returns with a sequel, this time embarking on an unexpected journey with fictional pop superstar Skye Riley. "During the initial month of contemplating a follow-up, any concept that crossed my mind was promptly dismissed," Finn confessed to The Hollywood Reporter at the film's star-studded L.A. premiere on Monday. "I yearn for the intricate world of pop music and am enthralled by the enigmatic personas who veil their true selves beneath the velvet cloak of stardom. When the idea of a megastar like Skye Riley dawned on me, it sparked a fascination that swiftly became an obsession."
Where the first chapter introduced a mysterious entity, materializing as eerie smiles, to haunt a psychiatrist (portrayed by Sosie Bacon), the sequel finds pop icon Skye (Naomi Scott) grappling with a spiral of inexplicable horrors, compounded by the mounting pressures and terrors of fame.
Finn drew inspiration from a tapestry of superstars, including Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Britney Spears, Sia, Olivia Rodrigo, Tate McRae, and Charli XCX, striving to create a character who resonates instantly yet possesses a distinct, alluring flavor.
Scott revealed her instant allure to Finn's vision of the film as a character-driven exploration rather than a conventional horror flick. "On set, it was a daily question of whether I'd be singing, dancing, or tearing up in terror," she shared, emphasizing her commitment to leaving the character behind each day. "I fear I'd lose my sanity if I didn't," she added.
Finn imparted his unique technique for achieving the film's chilling smiles, quipping, "Sometimes, actors arrive well-prepared, as if they've been practicing in the mirror, while others require a touch of coaching." He elaborated, "The key is to smile genuinely, avoiding exaggeration or facial strain. It's about detaching the eyes from the smile and mastering the subtle tilt of the head. We even borrowed from the famed 'Kubrick Stare,' blending it with cinematic finesse—framing and sound design—to enhance the effect."
Jack Nicholson's son, Ray, who sports the ominous smile on promotional posters, disclosed that he nailed his smiling scenes in a single take. "Naomi prepped me, saying Finn is meticulous and works with everyone. We did it, and Naomi exclaimed, 'That's a wrap in one take!'" he recounted with a grin.
Looking ahead, Finn is brimming with optimism for the franchise's future. "The possibilities for 'Smile' are boundless," he enthused. "We'll gauge audiences' reaction to 'Smile 2,' but what's remarkable is its potential to tell diverse stories across various landscapes, with 'Smile' as the invading force."
Set to captivate audiences from Friday onwards, "Smile 2" promises to be an unforgettable voyage into the twisted realm of horror and fame.
