Smile

I don't know how long it's been since we've gotten this type of "jump-scare" horror not only in the cinema, but on other platforms, so I can't help but cheer with excitement that Smile has done well. The central idea is just right for a horror film, the acting and writing are enjoyable and, as I mentioned, the biggest draws are the ubiquitous jump-scares, the clever play with the camera, the music and the viewer expectations and, most importantly, the quality visuals. The trailer already gave me goosebumps with its audiovisual style and the film itself is no different. Overall it's simply a very good horror film that isn't stupid, scares, entertains and, most importantly, engages. Brilliant. (10/07/2022)

In screenwriting terms, Smile is a lesser variation on It Follows, but only where innovativeness is concerned. Psychologically, it is carefully constructed, almost in the manner of a procedural, without a single weakness. It is also excellently filmed and very intense in its suspense and scares, with brilliant sound design. And the newcomer Sosie Bacon is great in the lead role. Director Parker Finn surprises us again. (10/09/2022)

The next time I want a similar viewing experience, I'll give the the money for the cinema ticket to the nearest homeless guy to go to my house for two hours and give me a "boo" every two minutes. I'll save myself a trip to the cinema, do a good deed, and with his alcohol breath, I'll even get it straight as 4DX. Technically it's nicely shot, the effects are solid, it doesn't offend in any way, and despite its lack of originality it hides a solid horror theme, but what's the point if the filmmakers trade horror atmosphere for constant cheap jump scares? Even the transitions between scenes are cut quickly and with a strong sound effect to make it worthwhile. This is a really bad viewing experience for me, I didn’t enjoy it. Those two hours were excruciating. (10/16/2022)

A weaker reheating of It Follows and Drag Me to Hell mixed together. Excellent sound design and a couple of well executed jump scares pull it up slightly above average in the end. The craftsmanship is very solid, and the few scripting missteps thankfully don't feel particularly distracting. As a horror one-off, it's actually quite good. If you don't expect any deeper themes from horror movies and are content with simple (but well presented) entertainment and a few jump scares, this material is just for you. [65%] (10/15/2022)

An entity takes off! Say cheese! Yes, there’s definitely theft happening here. The formula of passing the baton of evil, distrust from those around, searching for causes, gradual personality breakdown—it's all been done before. What interests me more is the atmosphere it brings and whether it looks good, and in these aspects, Parker Finn succeeded. The trauma, sorrow, and guilt are developed appropriately, the upside-down camera effects and sound serve their purpose, and I dare say one Kansas City Shuffle jump scare might even catch seasoned predictors. Unintentionally funny scenes (when the seven-year-old unwraps gifts) can be overlooked, as can the viewer checking their watch waiting for the tactics from the end of Gregory Hoblit's Fallen (especially since the cat’s not in play anymore). In the case of the lead actress, I’m not sure if the bacon came from a nearby or faraway meat factory... (12/22/2022)