Smile (2022) - Review and key insights: is it worth watching?

Parker Finn – Smile (2022)

AT A GLANCE.*

!WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD!

Smile is a film that, while starting from an intriguing concept, fails to stand out in the contemporary horror landscape. While the “smiles” — as the title suggests — are genuinely unsettling, the film relies too heavily on predictable jump scares, neglecting the construction of solid suspense. Hitchcock once said suspense is what keeps you glued to your seat, while surprise is fleeting: Smile opts for the latter, breaking any sense of continuous tension.

The plot is also overly predictable, and subplots — such as the failed relationship with the cop — add little to nothing. The acting, while earnest, doesn’t manage to compensate for the limitations of a complex script. The twists follow a repetitive pattern: the “familiar face” that turns out to be the entity quickly loses its shock value. And the ending? While avoiding a positive resolution, it leaves much to be desired.

Would we recommend it?

Not really. But those smiling faces… they’ll linger in your mind far longer than the story itself.

*This review is part of the AT A GLANCE format: short, based on a first viewing, and entirely subjective. It reflects my personal taste in cinema. It may be right, it may be wrong, but who cares?

USEFUL INFO

Where to find it?
It’s currently available on Netflix. However, since streaming catalogs often change, check JUSTWATCH to see where it’s available.
Still unsure whether to watch it?
Now you know what we think. If you haven’t seen it yet and are undecided, watch the trailer.

If you’ve already seen it and want to share your thoughts, leave a comment at the bottom of the page! We love hearing different perspectives and, why not, sparking a debate. Whether you agree or disagree, cinema is always a great reason to talk.

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