After captivating audiences with spine-chilling suspense in 2022, Smile made an indelible mark on the horror genre. Now, the haunting tale continues in Smile 2, directed once again by Parker Finn. Following its theatrical release in October, this highly anticipated sequel, starring Naomi Scott as pop star Skye Riley, is set to stream on Paramount+ starting Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024.
A Haunting Success
Smile 2 expands the franchise’s eerie universe, following Riley as she embarks on a world tour plagued by a sinister force. The sequel earned positive praise, boasting an 86% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, a marked improvement from the original film’s 79%. Audiences were equally thrilled, making Smile 2 a rare case where a sequel surpasses its predecessor.
Financially, while Smile 2 didn’t quite match the $217 million global box office haul of the original, it still delivered an impressive $137 million worldwide on a $28 million budget. Combined with its successful VOD debut on November 19th, the film has positioned itself as a solid win for Paramount and a clear indicator of audience appetite for more in this unsettling universe.
Why Smile 2 Stands Out
Unlike many horror sequels, Smile 2 carves its own path while maintaining ties to the original. Naomi Scott delivers a gripping performance as Skye Riley, anchoring the film with emotional depth and palpable tension. Her portrayal has set a high standard for future installments, should the franchise continue.
The film also leaves viewers with lingering questions and an open door for a potential Smile 3. Whether Finn and Paramount choose to expand this terrifying world further, the sequel’s overwhelming success on both critical and audience fronts suggests strong demand for another chapter.
Stream The Thrills
Paramount+ is ready to deliver the next chapter of Smile right to your living room. In a teaser announcing the streaming release, Paramount teased, “We have news that’ll make you smile”. Whether you’re revisiting the nail-biting scares or watching for the first time, Smile 2 is set to become a must-stream event this holiday season.
Don’t miss your chance to relive the thrills, suspense, and sinister surprises that have made Smile 2 a standout sequel in modern horror. Just in time for the holidays, be sure to clear your schedule on December 3rd! Prepare to face the terror once more—this time, from the comfort of your own home.
