Smile said a lot about trauma, mental health, and fighting demons (literal and figuratively) to survive. Many consider it one of the best modern horror films . Naturally, this meant that some fans of Smile were skeptical about the sequel.
It wasn’t an upcoming horror movie that some fans wanted because of its potential to undermine the film’s legacy. A sequel is rarely as good or better than the original, but it turns out that Smile 2 falls into that rare category. Smile 2 surpasses Smile in boldness, plot, horror, and leaving a lasting impression.
I also connected with Smile 2 in a way that I didn’t connect with the first film. The themes and messages hit you on the head a little more in the second film. Mainly, Smile 2 's explorations of mental health and trauma really resonated with me.
Warning: Smile 2 spoilers are ahead. Proceed with caution. Smile 2 Reminded Me Of The Torture Sometimes Behind A Fake Smile The idea of hiding behind a smile is the backbone of the Smile movies.
It’s the idea that something seemingly wholesome and honest like a smile can have sinister connotations. This isn’t really flipping the switch on the idea of a smile because it sometimes is a devious or damaging act. People are often told to smile away their pain.
Many who encourage others to smile aren’t doing it maliciously, but generally believe that a smile can cure sadness or pain. However, smiles can also hurt people, because it hinders them from being true to their other emotions..