It’s always tough to make a sequel to a surprise hit, since movies like that are rarely planned with long-term franchise development in mind. That’s why writer-director Parker Finn returning for the follow-up to his 2022 horror sensation “Smile” seemed like a dubious prospect to me, especially with the weight of expectations that comes with attempting to duplicate such a singular success.
I’m relieved to say that “Smile 2” (which opens Friday in theaters) is a mostly satisfying step up for Finn and the burgeoning horror series, even if it doesn’t make a case for an ongoing “Smile” universe.
