The Return of Horror: Parker Finn’s ‘Smile 2’ Set to Haunt Audiences Again
Washington [US], October 16 (ANI) – Following the overwhelming success of the 2022 horror film ‘Smile,’ writer-director Parker Finn is gearing up for a chilling sequel that promises to delve deeper into the unsettling world he created. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the new installment will introduce audiences to Skye Riley, a famous pop singer portrayed by Naomi Scott, who finds herself ensnared in a web of terror reminiscent of the original film.
A New Face in Horror
The first ‘Smile’ film captivated audiences with its unique premise, revolving around a mysterious entity that manifests as people with unnerving smiles. The film’s protagonist, a psychiatrist played by Sosie Bacon, faced harrowing experiences as she unraveled the sinister nature of this entity. In ‘Smile 2,’ the narrative shifts to Skye Riley, a mega pop star who becomes embroiled in horrifying incidents that challenge her sanity and safety.
Finn’s choice to center the sequel around a pop star reflects his fascination with the duality of celebrity life. At the film’s Los Angeles premiere, he expressed his initial hesitance to pursue a sequel, stating, "The first month that I started thinking about a sequel, any idea that came to me I just threw out right away because I was like if it’s coming to me this quickly, it’s too obvious." However, upon discovering the concept of a pop star haunted by a malevolent force, he felt a surge of inspiration that he couldn’t ignore.
The Allure of Pop Culture
Finn’s interest in the world of pop music plays a significant role in shaping the character of Skye Riley. Drawing inspiration from iconic figures such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Britney Spears, Sia, Olivia Rodrigo, Tate McRae, and Charli XCX, he aims to create a character that feels both familiar and distinct. "I just got kind of electrified by it and got obsessed with it," Finn remarked, highlighting his commitment to crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.
Naomi Scott, who takes on the role of Skye, expressed her immediate attraction to the storyline. The blend of horror and the glamorous yet often tumultuous world of pop stardom creates a rich backdrop for exploring themes of identity, fear, and the pressures of fame.
Crafting the Signature Smile
One of the most intriguing aspects of ‘Smile’ was its chilling portrayal of smiles that mask deeper horrors. Finn has shared insights into how he guides his actors to embody these unsettling expressions. He emphasizes the importance of a "friendly" smile that disconnects the eyes from the mouth, creating an eerie juxtaposition. "Sometimes the actors show up clearly really prepared, like I can tell they’ve been at home studying in the mirror, and other times it takes a little more coaching," he explained.
Finn employs techniques like the "Kubrick stare," a cinematic device used to convey instability and madness. This approach, combined with meticulous framing and sound design, enhances the film’s overall atmosphere, ensuring that the smiles evoke a sense of dread rather than joy.
The Future of the Franchise
As ‘Smile 2’ approaches its release, Finn is already contemplating the potential for future installments. He believes that the franchise has the capacity to explore diverse narratives and settings, stating, "There are so many exciting roads that Smile could go down." The success of the sequel will undoubtedly influence the direction of the franchise, but Finn is optimistic about the myriad of stories that could emerge from this chilling universe.
In conclusion, ‘Smile 2’ promises to be a thrilling continuation of the original film’s legacy, blending horror with the complexities of fame and identity. With Parker Finn at the helm and a captivating new character in Skye Riley, audiences can expect a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll. As the release date approaches, fans of the genre eagerly await the return of the unsettling smiles that made the first film a standout hit.