Smile 2 Star Shares Exciting Updates as Horror Sequel Wraps Filming

The sequel to the hit horror film Smile, aptly titled Smile 2, has officially completed filming. Lukas Gage, a newcomer to the franchise and known for his roles in Fargo and The White Lotus, shared this exciting update. Gage, along with other new cast members like Naomi Scott from Aladdin, Rosemarie DeWitt, Raúl Castillo, and Miles Gutierrez-Riley, will be joining Kyle Gallner, who reprises his role as the tormented police detective Joel.

Gage expressed his enthusiasm for the project during the South by Southwest premiere of Jake Gyllenhaal’s Road House remake. He assured fans that the sequel is shaping up to be a thrilling addition to the horror genre, with a twist involving his character that viewers can look forward to. Gage highlighted the innovative approach taken by director Parker Finn. He said:

“I just wrapped. We finished in upstate New York. It’s gonna be really good. I’m really excited for everyone to see that one. Doing a lot of sequels, it feels like, this year. The year of the sequel. I hope you like it. Parker Finn, the director of that, it was crazy how much he knows this genre of movies and how he was able to recreate it and make it fresh. It was such a cool formula to follow. How did nobody think to do that creepy smile face? My smile face is so good.”

Details about Smile 2 are still under wraps, yet expectations are high for it to surpass the original’s gripping combination of mind games and horror. The first film’s exploration of trauma and its haunting visual imagery set a high standard for the sequel to follow.

Despite the lack of detailed updates since the initial casting announcements, the completion of filming has reignited excitement for the sequel. One question that remains unanswered is whether Kal Penn, who played Dr. Desai in the original film, will return for Smile 2. Penn has conveyed his openness to reprise his role, yet the likelihood of his involvement in the sequel remains unclear. Penn stated:

As far as I know, I’m not in the sequel. But, I would obviously say “yes” if they called. That was a blast, that movie. I think originally it was called “There’s Something Wrong With Rose,” and it was this lower budget horror movie. I thought the script was awesome, and I’m from New Jersey, we shot mostly in New Jersey, so it seemed very cool. And I like horror. And then, the way it kind of blew up, I was so excited and so happy for, obviously, the cast, and Sosie, and the director, but just the idea that horror fans were like, “Alright, that’s the movie” that we didn’t even think was gonna go theatrical, and then it did. So I’m excited for the second one, as a fan.

Smile 2 Aims to Reinvent Horror with Fresh Twists and New Faces

The original Smile film was a surprise hit, blending psychological themes with effective horror elements to create a memorable cinematic experience. Its success raised questions about how the sequel would evolve the concept. According to Gage, director Parker Finn has managed to reinvent the formula, promising a fresh and captivating take on the story.

There’s a high level of excitement surrounding Smile 2, with fans keen to witness how the sequel expands on the original’s legacy. The introduction of new characters and a fresh twist on the curse set Smile 2 up as a potentially revolutionary addition to the horror genre. If Smile 2 can replicate the commercial success of its predecessor, which grossed over $217 million against a modest budget, it could solidify the Smile franchise as a staple in the horror landscape.

As the release date approaches, the horror community is buzzing with speculation and excitement. The success of Smile 2 will not only determine the future of the franchise but also contribute to the ongoing evolution of the horror genre. With its fresh approach and talented cast, Smile 2 is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences and keep them smiling, albeit nervously, for years to come.

Smile

Release Date

September 30, 2022

Director

Parker Finn