Parker Finn’s ‘Smile’ has hit Portsmouth’s cinemas — here’s why you NEED to see it
Prepare to sit in horror, discomfort and incredulity for 115 minutes straight, and partake in the sensational gasps and squeals from those watching on in cinemas.
Horror fanatics and thrill seekers, Smile is frankly unmissable — but approach with serious caution.
Not only a film, Smile is an immersive experience like no other, sharing a shocking narrative with twists, turns and of course jumps. Lots and lots of jumps…
The conceptual, violent tale of Smile, is led by protagonist Dr Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon), who encounters a sickening event whilst at work, earthing the start of an unforgettable roller coaster of developments which hastily change direction before spiralling and looping out of control.
The film’s underlying story is simply sinister, and its main target is Dr Cotter, who works in a mental hospital treating mentally ill patients, who you meet in the opening few scenes of the movie.
Bacon’s portrayal of her character is masterful, expressing nauseating facial expressions to match the chilling tones of narration that will make your stomach churn as the movie progresses at a pace not even Usain Bolt could contend with.
Bacon is astoundingly believable in her portrayal of Dr Cotter, and her emotional reactions to events mean that in spite of the storyline’s absurdity, it actually becomes confusingly believable, and you may start to cogitate how themes could emerge in your own life, adding to the powerful impacts of Smile.
Each actor absolutely nails the devilish ‘smile’, a sight that will fail to evacuate your mind after viewing for a concerningly long time…
Throughout the film, Dr Cotter contends with many characters’ disbelief in her version of events, including family, tying in with the beliefs of the viewer — a genius psychological merging from writer and director Finn that keeps you on the edge of your seat at every chance you are not hiding behind it.
The movie’s sound and music departments deserve monumental credit. The bass boosted thuds, shatters and scratches are enough to make anyone jump out of their seats. Many times.
For those who are squeamish, or not into blood and gore, jump scares or sudden movements, avoid at all costs. This is the ULTIMATE horror film that 2022 needed just before Halloween, and it is not for the faint-hearted.
Portsmouth’s cinemas have many screenings, and at Vue Gunwharf, you can watch for as little as £7.99.
