In the new horror film “Smile 2,” actress Naomi Scott takes on the challenging role of Skye Riley, a pop superstar attempting a career comeback that becomes intertwined with supernatural terror. The movie follows up on the psychological themes established in director Parker Finn’s original “Smile.”
Scott’s character Skye Riley starts the film trying to rebuild her career after a car crash and drug rehabilitation. However, her recovery is disrupted when she witnesses her drug dealer’s death, making her the latest victim of the franchise’s signature curse. This curse forces those who see traumatic events involving creepy grins to experience terrifying hallucinations.
Portraying both the glamorous and disturbing sides of Skye posed difficulties for Scott. “When we first meet her character, many complex issues are going on in her life,” Scott explained. “She constantly strives to prove herself and just wants to be truly seen and loved without conditions.”
To authentically play the pop star role, Scott immersed herself in music elements immediately after getting the part. She collaborated with producer Alexis Idarose Kesselman to co-write several of Riley’s songs. Scott also prepared extensively for Skye’s dance scenes. “I was in a recording studio just two days after being cast,” she said.
The film builds to a shocking climax where Riley’s inner turmoil boils over during her comeback concert performance in front of thousands of fans. Critics already praise Scott’s nuanced portrayal as one of the strongest performances of the year. Finn’s commitment to his unyielding vision for the film also drew Scott’s admiration.
“Smile 2” explores timely themes of celebrity pressures and hidden mental health struggles. Scott brings these complex issues to life through her multifaceted character, showing that fame cannot mask deep internal suffering. The film is currently in theaters nationwide.
