In this episode I review Smile 2, exploring its psychological depth, performance by Naomi Scott, and what makes a horror movie unforgettable. I discuss the fear, tension, and emotional storytelling that Smile 2 unpacks.

Exploring the Chills of Smile 2: What Makes a Great Horror Film?

Have you ever felt a shiver down your spine from just a smile? Smile 2 is here to deliver exactly that. Welcome to Horror Beyond Borders! My name is Daniela, and I explore horror films worldwide, diving deep into what makes them truly spine-chilling.

Today, I’ll dissect Smile 2, analyzing its effectiveness, fear factor, and contribution to the horror genre.

What Makes a Good Horror Movie? 🤔

Before diving into Smile 2, I’ll explore the essential ingredients that make a horror movie unforgettable. It's more than scares—it's about:

1. Building tension and atmosphere

2. Creating relatable characters

3. Reflecting real-world anxieties
   

According to film historian Dr. Joe Kendrick from Baylor University, “Character, story, atmosphere, and the monster” make great horror. He explains that horror films work best when they’re emotionally engaging. Once we connect with characters, we're drawn into their terrifying world. Smile 2 does that by building tension, relevance, and delusion, creating a safe thrill that keeps us coming back for more.

Psychologist Glenn D. Walters points out three key factors that keep horror compelling:

• Tension – Created through eerie music and suspense

• Relevance – Reflecting personal, cultural, or universal fears

• Unrealism – Allowing viewers to enjoy the thrill without real danger

These elements paired with cinematography, sound design, and storytelling, create a visceral experience that resonates long after the credits roll.

Smile 2 Review 🎬

Alright, let's dive into Smile 2!

Smile 2 follows Skye Riley, a global pop sensation played by Naomi Scott, who battles inner demons amidst the pressures of fame. Skye’s journey through trauma and substance abuse adds depth, making this not just a horror movie, but a reflection on real-life struggles.

Naomi Scott delivers a stellar performance, capturing Skye’s descent into a fractured reality. Her character’s battle with her past is depicted in a way that keeps you rooting for her throughout.

Highlights:

Psychological Depth – The demon haunting Skye symbolizes trauma, adding layers of psychological horror.

Sound Design – The eerie soundtrack intensifies each scare, immersing viewers.

Cinematography – Reality-bending scenes keep you questioning what’s real and what’s imagined.

However, the ending felt a bit predictable, falling into familiar horror tropes that undermined some of the impactful moments. Still, Smile 2 stands out for its unique perspective and creative tension-building.

Rating:

Story: 7/10 – A refreshing take, but the ending could have been stronger.

Scare Factor: 7/10 – Uses psychological horror effectively, with well-timed scares.

Overall Impact: 8/10 – A solid horror experience with emotional depth.

Why Horror is Subjective 🧠

Since the release of this film, there have been debates if this movie was “Scary”, but let’s answer the true question first. What makes horror movies so polarizing? Horror is subjective; each of us connects with it differently, which is part of what makes the genre so captivating.

I’m drawn to paranormal tales and urban legends— these stories stay with me long after the film ends. Meanwhile, others might find more fear in real-world threats. This is why classics like The Exorcist and Halloween have a lasting impact—they tap into universal anxieties while still feeling personal.

Some fans, like Reddit user “justwilliams,” believe that “a good horror does not scare you while watching, but one that makes you think about it long after.” This sentiment captures why horror lingers with us.

Horror offers an adrenaline rush that can even help ease anxiety. According to an article in Mental Health Today, horror films allow us to experience stress in a controlled way, which can provide a unique “feel-good” effect once the fear subsides.

Horror goes beyond jump scares and eerie settings—it’s a genre that invites us to confront the fears lurking beneath the surface. Whether it’s paranormal creatures or real-life traumas, horror reflects our deepest anxieties, connecting us personally.

Next time you watch a horror movie, think about what unsettles you and why. This makes horror so powerful: it reflects a piece of who we are.