Smile 2: First Reactions, Box Office Potential & Comparison to the Original

Get ready for a scream-fest! Smile 2 is hitting theaters soon and early reactions are already causing a buzz! The sequel to the 2022 viral hit, Smile, promises more scares and a fresh take on the chilling supernatural entity.

Smile 2 First Reactions

While full reviews aren't out yet, initial reactions on X (formerly Twitter) are overwhelmingly positive. Critics are raving about the increased intensity of the scares compared to the original Smile, praising director Parker Finn's vision.

Tatiana Hullender (@ScreenRant) describes it as a mix of "screaming and laughing," with high praise for Naomi Scott's performance.
Perri Nemiroff highlights the "extremely effective scare set pieces" and stylish filmmaking.
Dead Meat James calls out multiple "jump scares" that elicited screams.
Rachel Shatto raves about the "unfettered horror" and Naomi Scott's performance, suggesting she might be a rival to Toni Collette.
Russ Milheim praises the "intriguing image of the franchise's future" hinted at in the opening and closing acts.
Shahbaz (@TheMoviePodcast) calls it a "terrifying masterpiece," praising Naomi Scott's performance and Finn's direction.
@filmcoolworld highlights the film's exploration of trauma, connecting the superficial "smiling" theme to a deeper layer of emotional struggle.
CineMovieTV emphasizes the increased intensity and "great score" compared to the original.
Drew Taylor states it's "funnier, stranger, bigger, and scarier" than the original, expanding the world effectively.

Also Read: Outperforming most 2024 releases, horror movie with 19% Rotten Tomatoes score is a box office hit.

Smile 2 vs. Smile

Imagery from Black Swan, Smile 2, and The Strangers Image

These early reactions suggest Smile 2 might follow in the footsteps of its predecessor's success. The original Smile boasts an 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and grossed over $217 million on a $17 million budget—a massive return on investment!

Smile 2 appears to enhance everything that made the first film work. Naomi Scott is leading the charge as Skye Riley and might bring her own unique edge. With new set pieces (including a one-shot sequence), the increased scares feel elaborate. The musical element might have been a smart marketing move! That made Smile 2 a lot different than the original. Kyle Gallner’s return as a cursed Joel also builds on the existing lore.

Also Read: Demi Moore's 'The Substance': A Body Horror Film About Hollywood & Aging

Smile 2 Box Office Potential

Word-of-mouth is key for horror sequels. If the overwhelmingly positive early buzz continues, and critic reviews match this energy, Smile 2 could be a major box-office hit, especially given Joker: Folie à Deux disappointing box office numbers.

The movie's success will rely on its positive reviews and, crucially, that fantastic word-of-mouth. If it delivers what critics promise, cinemas and fans will certainly look forward to it! Smile 2 has the potential to become the next Horror success, demonstrating original horror’s lasting power and potential for substantial financial returns!

Be sure to check out Smile 2 in theaters!

Smile 2: First Reactions, Box Office Potential & Comparison to the Original