Smile 2directorParker Finnhas admitted the plot of one of the year’s most expected horror sequels resembles that of another of this year’s horror hits,Trap. However,the director doesn’t have an issue with the coincidental timing of the movie’s release, which mirrors similar dual releases such asDante’s PeakandVolcano, andArmageddonandDeep Impact.
Finn is undoubtedly going throughone of the best moments of his life. The horror sequel is projected to surpass expectations at the end of the weekend, possibly getting better results than the original film. Amid the questions of follow-ups, castings, and his futurePossessionremake,Finn spoke to The Hollywood Reporterabout the storyline coincidence betweenSmile 2andTrap. The director usedArmageddonandDeep Impactas the best examples of twin movies released around the same time when replying:
“Well, I’m a big fan of Night [Shyamalan], and I think it was at CinemaCon [2024] where the premises of bothSmile 2andTrapwere revealed. So it was probably a surprise for both of us, but outside of there being a large pop star element to both, I knew there was very little chance that there would be much crossover in what the two movies are actually doing.
There’s room for all kinds of stories, and I’m glad that people seem to enjoyTrap. I also hope that people are excited to seeSmile 2.”
Smile 2 Director Wants Naomi Scott to Win Awards
WhileSmile 2is still fresh in terms of release and reception, it is another horror movie destined to be snubbed by The Academy when it comes to Oscars consideration.So far, people are digging Ray Nicholson’s performance in the film. Jack Nicholson’s son has found a way to incorporatehis father’s signature smileinto the movie.However, Finn also mentioned Naomi Scott’s performance to the Hollywood Reporter as an “absolute powerhouse” that deserves to receive many accolades. Per the director’s statement:
“I feel beyond lucky just to be able to make films. It’s a dream career, and I hope to keep making movies. Awards are lovely, but the real reward is the movie itself and getting to share that with the world.
But I agree. Naomi is an absolute powerhouse. She gives a tour-de-force performance in this film, and if I was on an awards committee, even unbiased, I would say she absolutely deserves consideration. So I hope that the industry starts recognizing that.”
How Smile 2 Connects to the Original: Does Joel Return?
Is Smile 2 a stand-alone sequel, or are the narratives connected?
Finn is about to leave the world ofSmilebehind for a little while, with his next project being a remake of the Sam Neill moviePossession. While there is still much to be revealed about the upcoming remake, he is certainly up for the challenge that such a remake brings with it. Mentioning about the Robert Pattinson starring movie, Finn commented,“It would take somebody out of their mind to remakePossession, and I think I might be just the guy.”
About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye is forced to face her dark past to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control.
