Smile 2 (#609)


The descriptions of the films released this weekend didn't seem all that promising, so I closed my eyes and picked one.  Mistake!  Probably should have kept my eyes open and seen the one I will see today.  I wondered, after viewing this one, if there was a predecessor and why they felt obligated to produce a sequel.  SMILE 2 was what might be called a psychological thriller because the star of the film, whom I had never seen before was psychotic.  She is a young and very successful pop singer/dancer who is returning to the stage after a year's absence.  It seems that she was in a terrible automobile accident in which a movie star driver was killed and she suffered traumatic injuries.  Her fans are thrilled by her return, but she's suffering from episodes of hallucinations and other worse experiences, which include some horrifying scenes of self mutilation and body parts being ripped apart or torn asunder with lots and lots of blood. I'll say one thing for the young lady.  She is a very good screamer—loud and prolonged, which may account for being picked for her starring role.  Sorry, but I saw no redeeming features of this one, which lasted an agonizing 2 hours and 7 minutes, despite the fact that 84% of critics and 82% of audiences gave it a thumbs up.  I have an idea of what they can do with their thumbs.  And to think it was directed by someone named Parker Finn. No relation, I assure you.  Today, I plan to see what is billed as a hilarious and brilliant political satire.  Wish me luck. 

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