Movie Review: Smile (2022)
Synopsis
Directed by Parker Finn, Smile (2022) is a psychological horror film that explores the unsettling power of trauma and the often overwhelming burden of grief. The story follows Dr. Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon), a compassionate yet troubled psychiatrist. After witnessing a bizarre incident involving a patient who, in a fit of madness, takes her own life while smiling hauntingly, Rose becomes increasingly unsettled. This moment serves as the catalyst for an ensuing series of inexplicable occurrences that spiral out of control. As Rose grapples with the aftermath of her patient’s death, she begins to experience eerie visions, a disquieting sense of being watched, and a growing fear that she, too, is becoming prey to a spectral phenomenon manifesting through manic smiles.
As Rose delves deeper into her own psyche and the investigations of her patient’s life, she takes on a dual role: therapist and the tortured subject of her own research. The more she learns about the mysterious curse tied to her patient’s suicide, the more the line between reality and hallucination blurs. Rose faces increased isolation as friends and family start to doubt her mental stability, leading her down a dark path filled with paranoia. The film weaves a tapestry of psychological terror and physical horror, showcasing the impact of trauma and the corrosive power of fear.
What begins as a struggle with loss evolves into a fight for survival—against a malevolent force manifesting through the smiling faces of those around her. Filled with choreographed scares, atmospheric tension, and a mix of psychological and supernatural horror, Smile seeks to leave its audience on the edge of their seats, contemplating what lurks just outside the realm of sanity.
Cast of Characters
- Sosie Bacon as Dr. Rose Cotter
- Jesse T. Usher as Trevor
- Caitlin Stasey as Laura Weaver
- Rob Morgan as Carl
- Kurt Caceres as Dr. North
- Gillian Zinser as Violet
- Caleb Lawrence as Young Man
- Ruben Garfias as the Policeman
- Maggie McCarthy as Jamie
- India Eisley as the Demon
Review
Smile is a film that expertly balances horror while exploring heavier thematic material. At first glance, the film may seem like a straightforward horror flick, capitalising on jump scares associated with the genre. However, Parker Finn crafts a narrative that probes deeper into the psyche of its protagonist, presenting a commentary on the effects of mental health and the prevalence of psychological trauma in everyday life.
Sosie Bacon delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Rose Cotter. She navigates the complexities of a woman caught between her professional duty and her personal turmoil. Bacon’s portrayal evokes empathy, making her character’s descent into paranoia both harrowing and relatable. As the film progresses, Rose’s dread becomes palpable; viewers feel the gravity of her plight and share in her mounting sense of dread. This emotional underpinning drives much of the horror in Smile, elevating it beyond mere shallow frights.
The film’s cinematography and sound design deserve special mention. The visuals employ an unsettlingly vibrant palette contrasted with shadowy undertones that contribute to the atmosphere of unease. The framing of shots often positions Rose literally and figuratively on the edge—the use of close-ups creates a feeling of claustrophobia. Furthermore, the sound design, replete with jarring crescendos and eerie silence, amplifies moments of tension. The bone-chilling score underscores the narrative’s emotional core, contributing to a relentless sense of impending doom. Each creak and whisper becomes an integral part of the horror, filling spaces that uncomfortably linger in the viewer’s mind.
Smile manages to blend elements of supernatural horror with psychological complexities, intertwining themes of trauma and perception. This duality is perhaps most effectively illustrated in the character of Laura Weaver (Caitlin Stasey), who represents a vivid reminder of how trauma can perpetuate itself; her character’s tragic fate serves as a cautionary tale for Rose, a constant echo of warnings unheeded.
While the foundation of the film is strong, certain horror tropes, such as familiar jump scares, may leave genre aficionados feeling slightly unfulfilled. Yet, Finn manages to refresh some of these conventions, blending them with psychological horror that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. In moments of dread, the film taps into a more profound terror—the fear of losing one’s mental faculties. This is a theme that resonates on both personal and societal levels, as the stigma surrounding mental health continues to affect countless individuals.
The film also presents a critical examination of societal reactions to mental illness. Dr. Rose Cotter’s struggles to convince those around her of the threats she faces reflect a frustrating truth encountered by many who suffer from mental health issues. The dismissive attitude and scepticism displayed by other characters heighten Rose’s isolation and desperation. These themes of belief and uncertainty evoke a deep questioning about what is deemed ‘real’ and how societal norms can dismiss genuine pain. They resonate with viewers, providing not just horror but an opportunity for reflection on the stigma surrounding mental illness.
The intricate world-building is commendable, though there are moments when exposition may feel rushed. Some viewers might struggle with aspects of the plot that could benefit from further elaboration or exploration, particularly concerning Rose’s connection to her profession and the mysterious curse associated with the smiles she encounters. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall experience—rather, it invites audiences to engage more critically with the material, to draw connections between the characters’ struggles and their broader implications.
As the film reaches its climax, it introduces a complex yet rewarding narrative resolution, grounding the surreal in a sense of tragic inevitability. The ending, while shocking, raises questions about deceit, self-perception, and the devastating effects of unresolved mental health issues. The moral quandaries faced by Rose further deepen the psychological tension, allowing for a cathartic exploration of grief wrapped in horror.
In conclusion, Smile transcends the expected conventions of contemporary horror by integrating significant themes around mental health, trauma, and societal perceptions. Through exceptional performances, particularly by Sosie Bacon, and a carefully crafted atmosphere of dread, Parker Finn manages to deliver a film that resonates powerfully. The film offers not just surface-level scares but invites viewers to confront their inner demons while shining a light on the struggles faced by those entangled in mental strife. With its haunting visuals and thought-provoking narrative, Smile stands as a notable entry into the genre, secure in its place within the horror landscape.
Score: 8.5/10
