I watched Smile and I really liked it! 4/5
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Smile (2022) is a psychological horror film directed by Parker Finn and starring Sosie Bacon, Jessie T. Usher, Caitlin Stasey, Kyle Gallner, Rob Morgan, and Kal Penn. The film follows a therapist who begins to experience terrifying occurrences after witnessing a bizarre, traumatic incident involving a patient.
The visuals in Smile are stunning, with a dark and atmospheric look that suits the film’s horror tone. The cinematography is particularly effective, with Finn using a variety of techniques to create a sense of suspense and unease. For example, Finn often uses close-ups to focus on the characters’ facial expressions, allowing the audience to see the fear and uncertainty on their faces. He also uses shadows and darkness to create a sense of mystery and danger.
The film’s sound design is also excellent, with the use of sound effects and music to create a truly unsettling atmosphere. For example, the film’s use of silence is often just as effective as its use of loud noises in terms of creating suspense and scares.
The story of Smile is simple but effective. The film does a great job of building tension and atmosphere, with a number of scenes that are genuinely scary. The film’s pacing is also good, with the film never dragging or feeling too slow.
The film’s central mystery is also intriguing, and the film does a good job of keeping the audience guessing until the very end. However, the film’s ending is somewhat unsatisfying, and the film’s resolution is not entirely satisfying.
The performances in Smile are excellent. Sosie Bacon gives a standout performance as Dr. Rose Cotter, a therapist who is struggling to cope with the traumatic incident she witnessed. Bacon is able to convey the character’s fear and desperation in a believable and engaging way.
The film’s supporting cast is also good, with Jessie T. Usher, Caitlin Stasey, Kyle Gallner, Rob Morgan, and Kal Penn all giving memorable performances. Usher is particularly good as Joel, Rose’s boyfriend, who tries to support her through her ordeal. Stasey is also good as Laura, Rose’s best friend, who helps her to investigate the mystery of the smiling curse.
Smile explores a number of themes, including trauma, grief, and the nature of evil. The film also examines the importance of mental health and the dangers of suppressing one’s emotions.
The film’s portrayal of trauma is particularly realistic and effective. Rose’s struggle to cope with her trauma is believable and relatable. The film also shows how trauma can manifest itself in physical and psychological ways.
The film’s exploration of the nature of evil is also interesting. The film suggests that evil is not something that is external to us, but rather something that is within us all. The film also suggests that evil can be contagious, and that it can spread from person to person.
Smile is a well-made horror film with a number of things to offer. The film features excellent performances, suspenseful storytelling, and a dark and atmospheric look. However, the film’s story does have some flaws, and the film’s reliance on jump scares can become tedious at times.