In a time in which box office revenues aren’t exactly guaranteed to any movie, the small horror pictures have become a gold mine. One of those titles was “Smile,” which after being one of the most profitable films of 2022, is now also the number one film on Paramount+ worldwide, according to FlixPatrol.
One of the things that contributed to its success was its clever marketing campaign, which featured performers smiling ear to ear placed in different locations, such as MLB games. The disturbing stunt went viral, and then the film, which was also well-received, did the rest.
The movie stars Sosie Bacon, who plays a physiotherapist who becomes haunted by horrifying, smiling hallucinations after witnessing a traumatic event. Jessie T. Usher, Kyle Gallner, Robin Weigert, Caitlin Stasey, Kal Penn, and Rob Morgan round up the cast.
‘Smile’ was a total and surprising hit in 2022
After its release on Sept. 30 in 2022, “Smile” opened up in first place at the domestic box office, grossing $22 million this weekend. At the end of its theatrical run it grossed a total worldwide of $217.4 million against a production budget of $17 million.
According to Deadline, the film’s net profit was $101 million, taking into account production budgets, marketing, talent participations, and other costs. However, it was placed tenth on their 2022 list of “Most Valuable Blockbuster.” Curiously, the film was first intended for streaming only.
The film was directed by Parker Finn, in his feature directorial debut. It was based on his 2020 short film “Laura Hasn’t Slept,” and it premiered at the Fantastic Fest. “Smile” was praised by critics due to its visuals, genuinely scary moments, and the script’s exploration of trauma, as well as Bacon’s performance.
Due to its success, Paramount will release a sequel in October, 2024. Kyle Gallner reprises his role as Joel from the first film, while Naomi Scott, Lukas Gage, and Rosemarie DeWitt appear as new characters. Finn returns as writer and director.