Smile (2022 Film) – A Detailed Description
Storyline
Smile is a 2022 horror film directed and written by Parker Finn, marking his feature film debut. The movie follows the story of Dr. Rose Cotter, a determined and workaholic therapist played by Sosie Bacon. Rose is accustomed to dealing with mentally ill patients who have experienced trauma, but her life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters Laura Weaver, a PhD student who has been brought to the psychiatric emergency ward where Rose works.
Laura claims to see an entity hiding behind human smiles, which is coming for her and has killed others. This encounter leaves Rose shaken and questioning her own sanity. As she tries to shake off what she’s seen and heard, Rose begins to see unexplained smiles everywhere, leading her to wonder if the entity could be real and coming for her as well.
The film delves into themes of trauma, mental health, and the stigma surrounding mental illness. Rose’s past, particularly her mother’s suicide, plays a significant role in her current situation. The entity seems to feed on the trauma of its victims, making Rose’s hallucinations, lost time, and emotional volatility increasingly disturbing.
As the story unfolds, Rose’s fiancé Trevor (played by Jessie T. Usher) and her therapist Dr. Northcott (played by Robin Weigert) initially believe that Rose’s issues are neurochemical rather than supernatural. However, as the events escalate, they begin to suspect that something more sinister is at play. The only one who initially believes Rose is her ex, Joel (played by Kyle Gallner), a cop who has been assigned to Laura’s case.
Cast
Sosie Bacon as Dr. Rose Cotter: In her first lead role for a feature film, Sosie Bacon delivers a compelling performance as the protagonist. She has previously appeared in TV series such as 13 Reasons Why, Here and Now, Narcos: Mexico, and Mare of Easttown.
Jessie T. Usher as Trevor: Known for his role as A-Train in Amazon’s The Boys, Jessie T. Usher also has notable roles in films like Independence Day: Resurgence and Shaft. He has appeared in various TV shows including Level Up, Survivor’s Remorse, Criminal Minds, and Tales of the Walking Dead.
Kyle Gallner as Joel: Gallner is no stranger to the horror genre, having co-starred in Jennifer’s Body, The Haunting in Connecticut, and the Nightmare on Elm Street remake. His other credits include roles in Interrogation, Outsiders, and Dinner in America.
Caitlin Stasey as Laura Weaver: Stasey starred in Parker Finn’s 2020 short film Laura Hasn’t Slept, on which Smile is based. She also played a lead role in Tomorrow, When the War Began and appeared in movies like All Cheerleaders Die and I, Frankenstein.
Robin Weigert as Dr. Madeline Northcott: Weigert is known for her roles in TV series such as Sons of Anarchy, Deadwood, and American Horror Story.
Director and Crew
Director: Parker Finn: Finn made his feature film debut with Smile, which is based on his short film Laura Hasn’t Slept. He has been praised for his ability to craft jump scares and create an unsettling atmosphere.
Writers: Parker Finn: The screenplay was written by Finn, who aimed to create a film that would be both terrifying and thought-provoking, exploring themes of trauma and mental health.
Movie Poster
The movie poster for Smile features a haunting image of Sosie Bacon as Dr. Rose Cotter, with a subtle yet unsettling smile on her face. The background is dark and ominous, with faint images of other characters’ smiles that seem to be watching her. The title Smile is prominently displayed in bold, eerie letters, hinting at the supernatural entity that haunts the protagonist. The poster is designed to capture the viewer’s attention by suggesting that even the most innocent-looking smiles can hide a sinister presence.
Reception
Smile received positive reviews from critics, with a 76% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 69. The film was praised for its relentless grimness, strong performances, and effective use of practical, performance-based smiles to create an unnerving atmosphere.
Media and Framed Prints
Fans of the film can enjoy various forms of media related to Smile, including:
Framed Prints: Posters and prints of the movie’s haunting images can be framed and hung on walls, serving as a reminder of the film’s chilling themes.
Canvas Prints: High-quality canvas prints of the movie poster or key scenes can be purchased, allowing fans to display their love for the film in a more artistic way.
Digital Downloads: The movie is available for digital download, allowing viewers to watch it from the comfort of their own homes.
Streaming Services: Smile is available on various streaming platforms, making it easily accessible to horror fans worldwide.
In summary, Smile is a gripping horror film that delves into themes of trauma, mental health, and the supernatural. With a strong cast, including Sosie Bacon, Jessie T. Usher, and Kyle Gallner, and directed by Parker Finn, the movie offers a chilling experience that will leave viewers unsettled. The movie poster, designed to capture the essence of the film’s haunting atmosphere, is a must-have for fans of horror movies. Whether enjoyed in theaters or as a framed print, Smile is a film that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
