Turn those box office frowns upside down, as “Smile 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to Paramount’s unexpected horror hit, is set to debut this weekend.
Directed and written once again by Parker Finn, the film has already generated $2.5 million from Thursday previews, surpassing the $2 million collected by its predecessor during the same period in October 2022.
The new installment continues the chilling narrative of the demonic force that plagues its victims with a terrifying grin. Early estimates suggest that “Smile 2” could rake in between $20 million and $25 million during its opening weekend, although more conservative projections from Paramount anticipate earnings in the high teens.
The original “Smile” film, which was initially intended for streaming, opened with $22.6 million and ultimately grossed $105 million domestically and $217 million globally, establishing itself as a sleeper hit.
Smile 2: new chapter in horror?
With a production budget of $28 million, “Smile 2” is positioned to replicate the financial success of its predecessor while continuing to captivate audiences with its eerie storyline.
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This time, Naomi Scott stars as Skye Riley, a world-famous pop star who becomes the latest target of the sinister demon. As Skye embarks on a comeback world tour, she begins to unravel mentally, plagued by hallucinations among her throngs of adoring fans.
The cast also features notable actors such as Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Kyle Gallner, Dylan Gelula, Raul Castillo, Peter Jacobsen, and Ray Nicholson, adding depth to this chilling narrative.
Oscar buzz for “Anora”
In addition to “Smile 2,” moviegoers can also look forward to the limited release of “Anora,” a film by Neon and director Sean Baker. This critically acclaimed project follows the story of a stripper who falls in love with the son of a Russian oligarch. Generating buzz ahead of the Oscars, “Anora” is expected to draw attention as it opens in limited theaters this weekend before a broader rollout.
