As we delve into the intriguing world of the horror film “Smile,” it becomes evident that the decade of the 2010s has left its mark on horror storytelling. Standing on the cusp of a new decade, “Smile,” a new Paramount release, fits seamlessly into this era of trauma metaphors. What sets it apart is its unique approach—the monster here is not just a metaphor; it is a malevolent force that thrives on trauma itself. In this article, we’ll dissect the nuances of “Smile,” its themes, its characters, and its place within the realm of horror.
1. A Visceral Encounter: The Core of “Smile”
At the heart of “Smile” lies a dark and unsettling premise. Dr. Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon) is plagued by an ominous entity that feeds on people who have witnessed grisly deaths by suicide. The film takes us on a journey through Rose’s encounters with this malevolent force, revealing its gruesome origins and its ability to spread through trauma.
2. The Intricate Web of Trauma and Fear
A defining aspect of “Smile” is its exploration of the aftermath of trauma. Rose’s life is intertwined with trauma, stemming from her mother’s suicide years earlier. The film intelligently weaves the stigma and fears surrounding mental illness into its narrative. Her fiancé, Trevor (Jessie T. Usher), delves into researching inherited mental illness, shedding light on societal perceptions of mental health. The film unflinchingly uses terms like “nutjobs” and “crazies,” reflecting the stigma still present today. Rose’s internal struggle to differentiate between a supernatural curse and her own internal struggles paints a poignant picture of the complexities of trauma.
3. Grappling with the Supernatural: Unveiling the Entity
As the narrative unfolds, the film introduces Laura (Caitlin Stasey), a PhD student haunted by the entity after witnessing a gruesome suicide. The film dances on the line between the supernatural and the psychological, blurring the distinction between the two. Dr. Northcott (Robin Weigert), Dr. Desai (Kal Penn), and others around Rose attribute her experiences to neurochemical factors. This tension between supernatural horror and psychological thriller adds layers to the story.
4. The Dark Puzzle Unfolds: A Supernatural Mystery
The film’s second act brings Joel (Kyle Gallner) into the mix, Rose’s ex and a cop assigned to Laura’s case. Their reconnection initiates the film’s mystery element, leading to a series of revelations about the entity’s origins and intentions. This unfolding puzzle forms the core of the film’s tension, capturing the audience’s attention through every twist and turn.
5. The Relentless Atmosphere: Crafting Oppression and Unease
“Smile” distinguishes itself through its unrelenting sense of dread. Children, adults, and even pets find themselves vulnerable to the entity’s grasp. The film spares no gore in depicting the horror, aligning the visuals with the dark themes. Sosie Bacon’s portrayal of Rose amplifies the sense of vulnerability, capturing her shaky demeanor and moments of emotional turmoil. These elements contribute to the film’s oppressive atmosphere.
6. Paying Homage to Horror: Nods and Inspirations
While “Smile” has its own unique narrative, it’s impossible to ignore the nods to horror classics. The film’s color palette, featuring shades of lavender, pink, teal, and gray, draws attention to its well-crafted visual choices. However, “Smile” also ventures into territory reminiscent of “The Ring” and “It Follows.” David Robert Mitchell’s “It Follows” in particular leaves an imprint on the film, as does the film’s placement on the “trauma-focused horror” spectrum.
7. The Filmmaking Achievement: Director Parker Finn’s Debut
Director Parker Finn’s achievement with “Smile” is noteworthy. Expanding the original short film into a full-length feature, especially during a pandemic, demonstrates his prowess as a filmmaker. His capability in crafting elegant jump scares and evoking discomfort is evident, making him a promising name in the horror genre.
Conclusion
In the world of horror, “Smile” stands as a testament to the evolution of storytelling. Its fusion of trauma, supernatural elements, and psychological tension offers a unique narrative experience. While it draws inspiration from horror classics, it also forges its own path, capturing the complexities of human struggles. As we immerse ourselves in the haunting world of “Smile,” we are reminded that horror has the power to reflect our fears and anxieties, forcing us to confront the darkest corners of our minds.
