My thoughts after attending a special advance screening
On Tuesday night, I had the thrill (and terror) of attending the special screening of Paramount Studio’s highly anticipated ‘Smile 2’, which officially hits theaters tomorrow, at the Regal LA Live Theater in Downtown Los Angeles. Before we get into my review, check out the film’s trailer below with a special little spin from me. I couldn’t resist getting into the ‘Smile 2’ spirit.
The film did not disappoint—‘Smile’ 2 took everything that made the first movie unsettling and cranked it up several notches. As someone who thought I was tough when it came to horror films, I was genuinely horrified. The worst part? How it messes with your mind. Nothing is ever what it seems, and just when you think you’ve figured out what’s real and what isn’t, the film flips the script again, leaving you disoriented and gripping your seat.
After the screening, we made our way to the afterparty and activation at Bar CDMX in downtown LA. The atmosphere was electric; everyone was buzzing nonstop about how the movie left them feeling unsettled and downright spooked. The bar itself was transformed into a chilling extension of the ‘Smile 2’ experience, complete with themed food and drinks, and even a makeup station where professional artists drew on the iconic drippy bloody “Smile” lips for those brave enough to sport the sinister look. The merch station was a hit too—I’m now the proud owner of a ‘Smile 2’ hat that will probably become my go-to for spooky season.
For those unfamiliar, ‘Smile 2’ is a sequel to the 2022 horror hit ‘Smile’, directed by Parker Finn. The original followed a therapist’s descent into terror after witnessing a patient’s gruesome death and subsequently experiencing eerie phenomena linked to a cursed smile. This sequel dives deeper into the lore, expanding on the sinister forces at play and amplifying the psychological horror. It’s not just a movie that scares you in the moment; it lingers, creeping into your thoughts long after the credits roll.
’Smile 2’ premieres in theaters today, Oct 18th. If you’re a horror fan looking for a movie that’s more than just jump scares, ‘Smile 2’ is a must-watch. But fair warning: you might want to leave a nightlight on afterward.
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