Currently, there is one widely recognized theatrical film titled “Smile,” released in 2022. While the term “Smile movie” might sometimes refer to other films featuring smiling as a central motif or theme, this article will primarily focus on the 2022 psychological horror film “Smile,” offering a detailed overview and answering frequently asked questions about it.
Defining the “Smile Movie”: What Counts?
The simple answer is “one,” but the reality is more nuanced. When someone asks about “Smile movies,” they are likely referring to the 2022 film directed by Parker Finn. However, smiles, and particularly unsettling smiles, are a common trope in horror and thriller films. Therefore, it’s important to clarify what we mean by “Smile movie.” Are we only considering films explicitly titled “Smile,” or are we including films where disturbing smiles play a crucial role in the narrative?
We will primarily focus on the 2022 film “Smile” in this article, but also acknowledge the broader context of the “creepy smile” in cinema. This article aims to provide a complete picture, answering all your questions about this particular psychological horror phenomenon.
Smile (2022): A Deep Dive
The 2022 film “Smile” centers around Dr. Rose Cotter, a therapist who witnesses a bizarre and traumatic event involving a patient. Following this incident, Rose begins to experience increasingly terrifying and unexplained occurrences, marked by unsettling smiles on the faces of those around her. As the entity pursues her, Rose must confront her past to survive and break the cycle of trauma and death.
Why “Smile” Resonated with Audiences
Several factors contributed to the film’s success. First, its concept of a contagious curse transmitted through smiling is inherently unsettling. Smiling, typically associated with happiness and well-being, becomes a symbol of dread and impending doom. Second, the film’s psychological depth explores themes of trauma, mental health, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. Finally, the film’s jump scares and disturbing imagery effectively create a sense of unease and suspense, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. The movie’s success, grossing over $217 million worldwide against a $17 million budget, virtually guarantees a sequel, meaning there will likely be more “Smile” movies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “Smile”
Below are 12 frequently asked questions about the 2022 movie “Smile.”
FAQ 1: Who directed the movie “Smile”?
The movie “Smile” was directed and written by Parker Finn. This was his directorial debut for a feature film, though he had previously directed short films.
FAQ 2: Who plays Dr. Rose Cotter in “Smile”?
Sosie Bacon stars as Dr. Rose Cotter, the film’s protagonist. Her performance was widely praised for its portrayal of a woman struggling with trauma and mental instability.
FAQ 3: What is the basic plot of the movie “Smile”?
As mentioned above, the movie follows Dr. Rose Cotter, a therapist who witnesses a traumatic event and becomes haunted by a supernatural entity that manifests through unsettling smiles. She must uncover the truth behind the curse to save herself.
FAQ 4: Is “Smile” based on a book or short story?
“Smile” is based on Parker Finn’s 2020 short film, “Laura Hasn’t Slept.” The short film explores similar themes and imagery, serving as a foundation for the feature-length adaptation.
FAQ 5: What genre is the movie “Smile”?
“Smile” is primarily a psychological horror film, with elements of thriller and supernatural horror. It relies heavily on suspense, disturbing visuals, and the exploration of psychological trauma.
FAQ 6: Is “Smile” a remake of “The Ring”?
While “Smile” shares some thematic similarities with “The Ring,” particularly the concept of a curse that spreads through observation, it is not a remake. “Smile” presents a distinct narrative and mythology centered around trauma and mental health.
FAQ 7: Where was the movie “Smile” filmed?
The movie “Smile” was primarily filmed in New Jersey, particularly in the Newark and Jersey City areas. These locations provided the urban and suburban settings that contribute to the film’s atmosphere.
FAQ 8: Is there a sequel to “Smile”?
As of late 2024, a sequel titled “Smile 2” is slated for release in 2025. Sosie Bacon is expected to reprise her role. Its plot details are, as of now, under wraps.
FAQ 9: What are the key themes explored in “Smile”?
“Smile” delves into various themes, including trauma, mental health, the cycle of abuse, the burden of guilt, and the contagious nature of emotional pain. The film explores how unresolved trauma can manifest in disturbing and destructive ways.
FAQ 10: What age rating is “Smile”?
In the United States, “Smile” is rated R for strong violent content and gruesome images, and language. Parents should consider this rating when deciding whether the film is appropriate for their children.
FAQ 11: What makes the smiles in “Smile” so disturbing?
The smiles in “Smile” are disturbing because they are exaggerated, unnatural, and often juxtaposed with expressions of pain or terror. The incongruity between the smile and the context creates a sense of unease and signals something deeply wrong. They lack the genuine warmth associated with real smiles, conveying malice and impending doom.
FAQ 12: What is the significance of the title “Smile”?
The title “Smile” is significant because it subverts the positive connotations of smiling, turning it into a symbol of horror and psychological distress. The smile becomes a mask concealing pain and malevolence, highlighting the film’s exploration of hidden trauma. It is also a central visual element, acting as a constant reminder of the curse plaguing Rose.
Beyond “Smile” (2022): The Broader Context of Creepy Smiles in Film
While this article focuses on the 2022 film “Smile”, it is important to recognize the broader use of unsettling smiles in cinema. From the Joker’s menacing grin to the Cheshire Cat’s unsettling smile in “Alice in Wonderland,” smiles have often been used to create a sense of unease or to signify villainy. These instances, though not explicitly related to the film “Smile”, contribute to the cultural understanding of a disturbing smile as a symbol of something sinister.
Consider films like:
- “The Shining” (1980): Jack Nicholson’s manic grin throughout the film perfectly embodies the descent into madness.
- “It” (2017 & 2019): Pennywise’s exaggerated smile is inherently terrifying and designed to lure children to their doom.
- “Orphan” (2009): Esther’s twisted smile reveals the dark secret she holds.
These are but a few examples of how the smile can be manipulated to create a deeply unsettling effect on the viewer, reinforcing the power of this simple expression to convey both joy and terror.
The Future of “Smile” Movies
With the success of the original film and a sequel on the horizon, the “Smile” franchise has the potential to explore new dimensions of psychological horror. Future films could delve deeper into the origins of the curse, introduce new characters affected by it, or explore different cultural contexts where the symbolism of the smile takes on unique meanings. Ultimately, the success of future “Smile” movies will depend on their ability to maintain the unsettling atmosphere and psychological depth that made the first film so memorable. The upcoming sequel, “Smile 2,” holds the promise of further exploring the chilling world that Parker Finn created, and will inevitably lead to discussions about the expanding universe of “Smile” movies.