Smile 2 has a secret connection to The Shining

As a seasoned gamer and horror movie enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that Smile 2 has successfully managed to send chills down my spine while keeping me intrigued. The movie’s eerie similarities to horror classics like The Shining and The Ring are not lost on me, as it skillfully combines elements of both into a unique narrative.


In “Smile 2,” an ominous follow-up, an evil force torments a renowned pop singer. Interestingly, this film has a similarity with the timeless horror masterpiece, “The Shining.

In the spirit of films like The Ring, The Grudge, and It Follows, the Smile series revolves around a malady that spreads from one afflicted individual to another.

In the initial Smile film, a psychotherapist notices an ominous smile everywhere, indicating she’s been contaminated. On the other hand, the second Smile movie focuses on a popular musician who is tormented by a malicious spirit.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Parker Finn, who was responsible for writing and directing both films, discussed the technique he used to elicit those smiles from his actors. Furthermore, during this conversation, he disclosed a link between his work and that of renowned filmmaker Stanley Kubrick.

At times, the actors appear exceptionally well-prepared, as if they’ve spent hours practicing at home in front of mirrors. Other instances require a bit more guidance from me.

You seem to be aiming for a genuine, friendly smile, not one that’s too forced or strained. It’s important to remember not to overdo it. The secret lies in separating your eyes from your smile, and also paying attention to the angle of your head while you do so.

A subtle nod or tilt occurs; we embraced the well-known “Kubrick gaze,” leaning into this concept, making the focus shift entirely towards the artistry of cinematic techniques.

As a gamer, I can’t help but be captivated by those chilling, unblinking stares that have left an indelible mark in cinema history. Malcolm McDowell, Vincent D’Onofrio, and the legendary Jack Nicholson all delivered such stares, each time more haunting than the last. In A Clockwork Orange, McDowell’s gaze was as menacing as the movie itself, while D’Onofrio in Full Metal Jacket held a chilling intensity. However, it is Nicholson during The Shining that truly sends shivers down my spine whenever I see his unyielding stare, as perfectly captured in this image…

Smile 2 has a secret connection to The Shining

Apart from that, there’s another link to Stanley Kubrick’s horror masterpiece, as Jack’s son, Ray Nicholson, plays a significant part in Smile 2. Notably, he even had the opportunity to emulate the Kubrick stare, with advice from fellow cast member Naomi Scott.

At the LA premiere of the movie, Nicholson shared with THR: “Beforehand, Naomi gave me a heads-up, ‘Finn is meticulous, he collaborates with everyone extensively, so don’t doubt your actions, he’s just particular.’ True to her words, we went through it, and after one take, Naomi said, ‘Alright, that’s taken care of.'” (As a gamer) I found myself prepared for Finn’s intricate directing style, knowing that every move mattered and there was no room for error.

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2024-10-17 14:18