Smile 2

Directed by Parker Finn, Smile 2 follows pop singer Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) as she finds herself pursued by a malevolent demon after witnessing the violent suicide of a drug dealer (Lukas Gage’s Lewis Fregoli). Filmmaker Finn, armed with his own screenplay, kicks Smile 2 off with an absolutely enthralling opening sequence that picks up six days after the events of the original movie, and there’s little doubt, certainly, that the picture’s segue into a predictably deliberate midsection is, although inevitable, rather disappointing as a result – although, in fairness, Finn does an effective job of peppering the narrative with compelling attributes. (The most obvious being Scott’s perpetually and unexpectedly commanding turn as the tortured central character, as the actress offers up a frequently riveting performance that remains an obvious, ongoing highlight within the proceedings.) The inclusion of a few stark, unsettling sequences, including Skye’s memorable encounter with a group of demonic dancers, ensures that one’s interest remains piqued throughout, admittedly, and yet it’s clear that Smile 2 doesn’t become completely captivating and enthralling until it enters its nigh apocalyptic closing stretch – with the gripping, remarkably surprising conclusion, which seems to pave the way for far-from-formulaic sequels, certainly ensuring the whole thing ends on just about as spellbinding a note as one could possibly envision.

*** out of ****