Parker Finn, the visionary director behind the 2022 horror hit “Smile” and its recent sequel, “Smile 2,” has once again captivated audiences with his ability to craft chilling and unforgettable cinematic experiences. In this exclusive interview with Variety, Finn delves into the creative process behind these films, discussing the inspiration for “Smile 2,” the challenges of crafting a pop star’s world on a modest budget, and his vision for a potential “Smile” trilogy.
The Unexpected Sequel
When asked about the drastically different direction of “Smile 2” compared to its predecessor, Finn revealed that he wanted to surprise and delight audiences with an unexpected twist. “I wanted to see if I could catch audiences off guard with what we would do for the sequel,” he explained. “I wrote and directed that first film to exist in its own right.”
Finn’s search for a compelling new narrative led him to the idea of a troubled pop star, Skye Riley, played by Naomi Scott. “It felt like such an intriguing world to me,” Finn said. “This idea of somebody so famous and public-facing, who’s always expected to be performing this persona, and has to greet the world with a smile despite whatever might be going on behind the scenes.”
Crafting a Pop Star World on a Budget
Despite the film’s glamorous and decadent portrayal of the pop star world, Finn faced significant challenges in creating such a visually stunning environment on a modest budget. “It was important to me to build credibility with this pop star and her world,” he explained. “I didn’t want it to feel tacked on, or was happening in the periphery.”
To overcome these challenges, Finn relied on a talented creative team, a strong plan, and a focus on specificity. “We knew we were going to walk this razor wire, but we’re really pleased with how we pulled it off,” he said.
A Spooky Easter Egg
One of the intriguing details in “Smile 2” is a subtle reference to a real-life pop star who recently faced controversy. Finn confirmed that the line “This is gonna ruin the tour” was a deliberate nod to this event, adding a layer of humor and relevance to the film.
The Haunting Ending
The ending of “Smile 2” is sure to leave audiences pondering whether the characters are infected with The Smile. Finn hinted at the possibility, saying, “I think you’re asking the right question.”
Expanding the Lore
As for the future of the franchise, Finn revealed that he has plans to delve deeper into the backstory of The Smiler. “I love the fact that because it’s designed to get into the cracks of a character’s brain and start feasting on all the worst stuff inside of their head, it’s incredibly specific, unique, and personal to everyone it’s interacting with,” he explained.
However, Finn also emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of mystery and fear. “I oftentimes feel less is more with things like mythology in horror films,” he said. “I think the fear of the unknown is much more frightening.”
A “Possession” Remake
In addition to the “Smile” franchise, Finn is also attached to write and direct a remake of the 1981 cult classic “Possession.” While details are still scarce, Finn teased that his vision for the film is to create a spiritual successor that honors the original while also offering something new and exciting.
With his talent for crafting terrifying and thought-provoking stories, Parker Finn is undoubtedly a rising star in the horror genre. As he continues to explore the depths of human fear and the supernatural, audiences can expect to be captivated and chilled by his future projects.