Dylan Gelula

Smile 2 (2024): Parker Finn Returns to Deliver One of My Most Pleasant Surprises in 2024 Cinema

Posted on by Jack Drees

“Smile 2” is directed by Parker Finn, who also directed the first “Smile,” starring Sosie Bacon. This sequel stars Naomi Scott (Power Rangers, Aladdin) as a singer by the name Skye Riley. Joining Scott is a cast including Rosemarie DeWitt (La La Land, Poltergeist), Lukas Gage (Love, Victor, You), Miles Gutierrez-Riley (Agatha All Along, The Wilds), Peter Jacobson (House, Colony), Ray Nicholson (Out of the Blue, Panic), Dylan Gelula (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Dream Scenario), Raúl Castillo (Cold Weather, Looking), and Kyle Gallner (A Nightmare on Elm Street, Jennifer’s Body). This film is about a global pop star who experiences strange events while she promotes her tour.

If you have followed Scene Before for the past couple years, you would know that I have been thrilled with the horror genre lately, particularly in 2022. In that year you had one solid horror film after another. “The Black Phone,” “Barbarian,” “X,” “Pearl,” “Nope,” and of course, “Smile.” The last of these films is the feature-length debut from Parker Finn, and it was, deservedly, a huge success at the box office for Paramount. “Smile” even made my top 10 of the year. So naturally I HAD to be excited for the sequel right?

Ehh…

I love “Smile,” but it was a film I thought would be better off as a one and done. Do not get me wrong, I love the concept of “Smile,” and I was at least slightly intrigued to see another take on it. I did not see this sequel coming. Thankfully, Parker Finn is back, and he clearly knew what he was doing the first time around. He created a film that made me feel uneasy, terrified, and riveted. But if you are going to get someone to expand this universe, it might as well be an individual who knows it well. Though name recognition is not good enough. I hope Finn had a solid idea up his sleeve and was not just coming back to slap something together for a quick buck.

Thankfully, I am proud to say that this sequel lives up to the original. There are parts of this movie that I would even say are an improvement from the original. While I was more intrigued by the story of the first film, maybe due to the concept feeling fresh, I found the lead for “Smile 2” to leap off the screen more. Both in terms of her character, and her performance.

“Smile 2” is led by Naomi Scott, who I have not seen in a ton of projects. I know she is particularly famous for her appearance in the 2019 Disney “Aladdin” remake. I have not seen that film. Although I do like her based on what I saw her in leading up to this picture. I thought Scott was a good actress before seeing “Smile 2,” but I had no idea what exactly she was capable of until watching this film. Scott is given a lot to do between channeling a neverending sense of fear, singing, trying to convince others she is not going berserk. I bought into her entire performance. I will also give some credit to the costuming and makeup departments. Scott plays a pop star, and those two departments do a great job at transforming Scott into an artist admired by a sea of fans.

I have not seen the first “Smile” since the theater. I want to watch it again at some point. It could be fun to do a double feature of these films back to back. But kind of like the first film, once it gets to the ending, that is where “Smile 2” becomes as unhinged as it possibly can. This film might not exactly contain my favorite ending of the year. But I could not imagine a more fitting outcome of the story if I tried. Going back to the original “Smile,” I cannot say I remember everything that happens in that film’s climax. Though I will not deny that whatever did happen, made my skin crawl like you would not believe. It is not to say that the rest of the film was not scary. But I specifically remember the feeling I had watching parts of the climax. I felt an equally noticeable sense of discomfort watching the entirety of “Smile 2.” I was scared not just because of what loomed over our protagonist from a supernatural perspective, but also from a pure sanity standpoint. This film to a certain degree repeats concepts from the original in addition to other horror movies, but even these familiar elements feel as if they are done to their maximum potential.

Also with “Smile 2” being a sequel, it follows a cliche that many sequels tend to carry with them, that is to go bigger than its predecessor. I sometimes cite this as a negative in my reviews because while the scope expands, the quality of the story does not. Therefore, bigger does not always mean better. But I felt that the added scope of this film made for a more immersive and better production than the original. The film cost $28 million to make, up from its predecessor’s $17 million. Both budgets are not necessarily high, but the crew behind “Smile 2” clearly threw more money at the screen to give something more visually appealing than what was given in the first “Smile.” The sets feel more grand. The color palette is glossier. Even the look of our main character played by Naomi Scott has more pizzazz. Granted, she is a pop star, so she would require more elaborate outfits and makeup than the original’s lead, Sosie Bacon, who played a therapist.

Though if I have one negative-ish thing to say about the film, it is that it often comes off as a commercial. It is not shot like a commercial. It very much has the look and feel of a movie. But we get numerous glimpses of Paramount Global’s assets in order to further the story including a CBS news network and “The Drew Barrymore Show.” Have you ever watched a Sony movie and noticed them trying to promote their phones? TVs? Headsets? PlayStations? That is kind of what this feels like. In fact, some would even say that this shameless self-promotion is not even the biggest piece of commercialism in the film. It stood out to me, probably because I have a good amount of experience with mass media. But some would even say that Voss Water plays an even bigger role in “Smile 2” in terms of product placement. This did not bother me in particular. If anything, I thought anytime our main protagonist drank water in the movie, those moments properly encapsulated what she was feeling in specific scenes. Did this movie make me want Voss Water? Not really. So as for the effectiveness of this commercial, maybe it will work better for other people. I sound like a Negative Nancy, but if you want me to be real, the product placement here, while noticeable, is not as obnoxious as “Madame Web.”

“Smile 2” has something in common with another sequel from this year, “Inside Out 2.” These are movies that I thought had phenomenal first outings, but I was rather nervous when I found out they were getting sequels. I did not think a follow-up would be as good or worthwhile. I did not find a sequel to be all that necessary compared to other properties out there. But both sequels surprised me and stuck the landing. I think “Smile 2” is more consistent in quality with its predecessor whereas “Inside Out 2” is a noticeable step down, but still a pretty good flick. Another thing these movies have in common… I would not mind seeing a third one. I would especially be happy if Parker Finn comes back to do a threequel, though if someone else has a fresh idea up their sleeve, I would not be opposed to checking it out. But this second film is worth watching. It is not my favorite horror movie of the year. I think “A Quiet Place: Day One” is slightly better when it comes to characterization and overall engagement. But this is a huge win for the franchise, for Parker Finn, and for Paramount. I would love to see more of this property if possible.

In the end, it is safe to say, if you like the first “Smile” movie, chances are you will enjoy the second one. If you are not a fan of the first “Smile” movie, then maybe skip this sequel. I am going back and forth as to which movie I like more. I have to give the first film a lot of credit because it took a clever, crazy idea and turned it into an equally clever, crazy movie. Though I think this second film ups the scares, ups the insanity, ups the acting, and ups the production value. That said, I do think the first film’s story is slightly more engaging, as much as I like the main character and concept of this film as well. Despite how often this movie made me wince, I am definitely all smiles talking about it now. I am going to give “Smile 2” an 8/10.

“Smile 2” is now playing in theaters and is available to rent or buy on VOD. As of this writing the film is available to all Paramount+ and MGM+ subscribers.

Thanks for reading this review! My next reviews are going to be for “Nightbitch,” “Kraven the Hunter,” and “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim.” If you want to see these reviews and more from Scene Before, follow the blog either with an email or WordPress account! Also, check out the official Facebook page! I want to know, did you see “Smile 2?” What did you think about it? Or, which of the “Smile” movies puts a bigger grin on your face? The original? Or the sequel? Let me know down below! Scene Before is your click to the flicks!

Dream Scenario (2023): Unlike Dreams, This Film Will Be Hard to Forget

Posted on by Jack Drees

“Dream Scenario” is directed by Kristoffer Borgli (DRIB, Sick of Myself) and stars Nicolas Cage (The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Raising Arizona), Julianne Nicholson (August: Osage County, Masters of Sex), Michael Cera (Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Superbad), Tim Meadows (The Goldbergs, Saturday Night Live), Dylan Gelula (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Shameless), and Dylan Baker (Spider-Man 2, Kings). This film is about a professor at a Massachusetts college who for some reason starts showing up in all sorts of people’s dreams. Now this ordinary man must deal with extraordinary fame as the dreams, in addition to his life, take a nightmarish turn.

Who here likes Nicolas Cage? *raises hand*

Actually, better question, who doesn’t like Nicolas Cage? Okay, of course, he has done way too many projects for every single one to be an acclaimed masterpiece, but he has quite a prolific resume, he is a good actor, and he commits in every just about every role that is given to him. Nicolas Cage is one of those actors who will show up in any project and automatically turn it into gold. But I am going to be honest, when it comes to the concept of “Dream Scenario,” that alone is a golden idea. Basically, it is one guy showing up in people’s dreams and becoming a celebrity as a result. It is an idea that could potentially lend itself to decent comedy and tons of engaging consequences. But of course, if you put Nicolas Cage in the lead role, you are going from a golden nugget to a platinum gem. Literally. This might be because of meme culture and such, but when it comes to people’s faces, Nicolas Cage is one of those that I cannot get out of my head for some reason. Between those big eyes, expressive mouth, and crazy hair, it is impossible for that image to leave my noggin. In the case of “Dream Scenario,” Nicolas Cage’s character has a bit of a different look to him, but there is a vibe here that I have also managed to achieve from Cage’s other roles.

Of course, knowing what I just said, Nicolas Cage and the concept have clearly had me knocking on this movie’s door. But how was the execution? For the most part it was quite good, until it begins to falter by the film’s conclusion.

Per usual, Nicolas Cage is bringing his A-game here as the character of Paul Matthews. He has a natural and admirable presence throughout the film that made him come off as a standup gentleman. When it comes to the fame that is brought upon him in the movie, it turns out to be something he clearly never asked for. Fame can be fine and dandy, but it is clearly not for everyone. The movie dives into the downsides of being famous and the consequences that are more likely to ensue to those who achieve fame.

There are a good amount of characters in this movie, and there happen to be more than I expected at the forefront. But one of my favorite characters in the film just so happens to be Molly (right), played excellently by Dylan Gelula. I doubt she is going to be considered for an Oscar this awards season, but when it comes to the demands of her role, she basically checks every box and gets extra credit. Her character also adds a bit to the overall insanity of this film’s premise. She explains her part in the whole dream scenario, what Paul is doing in those dreams. To be honest, when she mentioned what that thing is, I honestly found it to be a bit predictable. I thought based on where the movie was going, I did not find the idea all that shocking, but it does necessarily mean it was stupid. It made sense and what the movie does with it is a highlight.

If anything, I will add that not only would I mind seeing Dylan Gelula in more stuff down the road, but I also would not mind seeing a movie where she and Nicolas Cage happen to be co-leads. Maybe a buddy cop movie or a father-daughter road trip adventure. Both actors do a really good job and unleash tremendous chemistry.

The film kind of goes back and forth between genres. Specifically horror and comedy. But never once does either genre overpower or jeopardize the other. They feel perfectly balanced. But when it comes to the horror aspects, I cannot say I was overly scared by “Dream Scenario.” Although I highly doubt that is what the film was going for. I think it was going more for hypnotizing chills than heart-stopping terror. But when it comes to comedy, I was surprised with how far the movie went. I wasn’t surprised it was funny. I was expecting that from the getgo. I was shocked with how funny it turned out to be. Now I don’t remember every joke in the movie, and when it comes to comedies this year, I think “Bottoms” and “Joy Ride” are better films overall. But there is one joke in this movie that had me laughing so hard to the point where I probably embarrassed my family members with whom I saw this movie. There is one particular joke in the middle of the film. I am not going to share too many details other than to note it was a fart joke. I find fart jokes to be a bit hit or miss, because they sometimes feel like copout jokes when there is nothing else that comes to mind. But here, it could not have been timed any better than it was. I was laughing so hard I almost died. That joke alone makes the movie worth seeing.

My biggest problem with “Dream Scenario” would have to be the climax. Because at this point, the movie almost decides to change course with its tone, vibe, and ideas, and deliver something different than what we have already seen. “Dream Scenario” very much feels like two different movies in one. There is a fairly enjoyable feature we see from the start, then there is some tacked on, rushed short film by the end. You can say the transition between these ideas makes logical sense, but you can also say they don’t belong in the same movie. Maybe the idea could be used in a sequel or spinoff to this film, but the climax takes a short amount of time to establish something we have not seen in the movie and quite honestly, barely even felt like we were building up to. If you had to ask me if “Dream Scenario” is a thumbs up or thumbs down, I would easily give it a thumbs up. But the climax made the film lose a point in my book. At the end of the day, I choose to look at the positives. The idea of the film is clever, and its cast from the lead to everyone else, turn things up to an 11. The movie is sometimes pretty funny. In fact, it probably delivered one of the biggest laughs I had watching any movie from this year. There is some fairly decent social commentary on cancel culture, fame, and how one bump in the road can jeopardize your life.

In the end, “Dream Scenario” is not the best film about dreams. Let me just remind everyone that “Inception” is a thing, but it is quite a good time and you would be doing yourself a favor if you watch it. “Dream Scenario” comes from A24, which is a rather polarizing distributor. A lot of their films are bangers, but there are also a notable few that are less than stellar. This is one of the better ones. And similar to even their bad or less notable films, I will be thinking about parts of this one for some time. I was pleasantly surprised that a movie diving deep into cancel culture and the consequences of fame may have had the best fart joke I have witnessed in a long time. Everyone is really good in this movie. The screenplay is fun, crazy, and wild. But if it were not for the third act, I probably would have liked this movie a little more. The positives heavily outweigh the negatives on this one, so I would have to give “Dream Scenario” a 7/10.

“Dream Scenario” is now playing in select theaters. It is also available to buy on VOD.

Thanks for reading this review! My next review is going to be for Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro!” Stay tuned! Also coming soon, I will have reviews for “Wonka,” “Migration,” and “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.” If you want to see these reviews and more from Scene Before, follow the blog either with an email or WordPress account! Also, check out the official Facebook page! I want to know, did you see “Dream Scenario?” What did you think about it? Or, what is the wildest dream you remember having? Let me know down below! Scene Before is your click to the flicks!