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Parker Finn has become something of a star in the horror world thanks to his 2022 breakout hit Smile. A movie that was originally supposed to go to streaming ended up becoming one of the biggest original horror hits in recent years. Naturally, that paved the way for Smile 2, which is in theaters now. But this is now a successful horror franchise we’re talking about so it can’t end there, can it? With the sequel out in the world the question must be asked; will there be a Smile 3? Finn has weighed in on the matter.
Finn weighed in on that very topic in a recent interview with Screen Rant. During the conversation, the writer/director touched on the potential future of the Smile franchise. In short, he didn’t give any definitive answers but he sure as heck didn’t rule out some kind of continuation, so long as it’s not just a sequel for the sake of a sequel. Here’s what he had to say about it:
“I do think that there are so many exciting places that Smile could go. For me, it’s still always about wanting to do something thematically rich that’s centered on character stories. I love where this film goes, and right now I’m excited for audiences to see Smile 2. Hopefully, if they embrace it, I think that there could be a really interesting future for Smile.”
It’s worth pointing out that Finn is going to be a very busy man in the years to come. For one, he signed a first-look deal with Paramount and Smile 2 was their first priority under that deal. Understandably so. Finn also teamed up with the studio on a remake of Possession, which will star Robert Pattinson (The Batman). That would most likely happen before a third installment in this franchise.
That said, there’s no reason another filmmaker couldn’t take the reins, with Finn’s blessing of course. It happens all the time as horror franchises grow beyond their creator. Plus, Finn laid out a template of centering the sequel on a new cast of characters with a new setting, not unlike the Final Destination films. That could make it easier to pass the torch, should things go that route. For the time being, in Smile 2…
“About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and pressures of fame, she must confront her dark past before her life spirals out of control.”
Smile 2 is in theaters now. For more, check out our list of 99 horror movies you can stream on Arrow or Criterion this month.
