The release date for Smile 2 sets up a pretty terrifying situation, as another creepy film will be in theaters at the same time. The sequel to 2022’s Smile was confirmed the following spring after the first film performed well at the box office. The plot of the follow-up is still a mystery as it is still in production, but it has a lot to live up to.
The original Smile follows a terrifying plot that links an eerie facial expression to the characters’ childhood trauma. Smile 2 will likely continue this plot, possibly introducing new characters to face their pasts in order to conquer the haunting smile. However, the scariest part of Smile 2 may be the other popular film that will be in theaters at the same time.
Smile 2’s Release Sets Up A Great Double Bill With Joker 2 In 2024
Smile 2 is set to release on October 18, 2024, which is just two weeks after Joker: Folie à Deux will hit theaters. While there’s a lot to look forward to with the Joker sequel, like Joaquin Phoenix’s return to the character and Lady Gaga’s addition, the Joker’s smile is a pretty big part of the film, too. It’s unlikely the two films being in theaters at the same time will create the kind of enthusiasm as Barbie and Oppenheimer‘s Barbenheimer phenomenon, but it’s still exciting to have two movies with characters defined by their smiles playing simultaneously. Both films also touch on the psychological aspects of their characters.
While Joker is a more popular franchise, this is still good news for Smile 2. The similar themes could inspire Joker fans to go see Smile 2 after seeing Joker: Folie à Deux, even with the knowledge that the films will be pretty different. It will also be interesting to see the two movie posters in theaters next to each other, which could lead to some viral social media posts if fans decide to take pictures with them. The Barbenheimer double feature trend did wonders for Barbie and Oppenheimer, and if fans create a Halloween version with Smile 2 and Joker: Folie à Deux, the films could definitely take in more than their prequel movies did.
Smile 2’s Release Date Can Make It Even Bigger Than The First Movie
The original Smile was a massive success as it grossed $217.4 million worldwide against a $17 million budget. However, Smile 2 has even greater potential due to its release date. The first film premiered on September 30, 2022, which is a pretty good date since it’s near Halloween season. However, Smile 2 is releasing even closer to Halloween, toward the end of October, giving it an even better chance of performing well.
