14 Movies like Smile You Must Watch

"In 2022, Smile emerged as a standout in the horror genre, captivating audiences with its unsettling portrayal of a sinister smile that lingers long after the film’s credits roll. Directed by Parker Finn and adapted from his short film Laura Hasn’t Slept, Smile has made a profound impact with its eerie atmosphere and disturbing imagery, setting a new benchmark for psychological horror."

"Smile has captivated audiences with its fresh approach to psychological horror, utilizing the chilling concept of a haunted smile to delve into deep-seated fears and unease. This innovative approach underscores a growing trend in horror films that blend psychological tension with supernatural elements to create an immersive and nerve-wracking experience."

"If Smile left you craving more of its spine-tingling psychological suspense and supernatural scares, you’re in luck. Below is a curated list of films that capture similar chills and thrills, each bringing its own unique flavor to the horror genre."

"As the horror genre continues to captivate audiences, especially around Halloween, there is an increasing demand for films that blend suspense, psychological depth, and supernatural intrigue. Whether you’re gearing up for a Halloween marathon or simply seeking disturbing narratives, these films are sure to satisfy your craving for fear and tension."

"The enduring fascination with psychological and supernatural horror is evident in recent releases. The following films reflect this trend, featuring suspenseful and terrifying elements that align with the chilling atmosphere found in Smile, making them perfect picks for fans of intense and immersive horror."

Midsommar (July 3, 2019)

• Running Time: 148 minutes
• Produced By: Square Peg, B-Reel Films, A24

Midsommar follows a group of friends who travel to a remote Scandinavian commune for a midsummer festival. What begins as a seemingly idyllic retreat quickly devolves into a nightmarish ordeal as they become entangled in increasingly bizarre and horrifying pagan rituals. The film explores themes of grief, trauma, and cultural isolation against a backdrop of relentless daylight horror.

Like Smile, Midsommar excels in creating an unsettling atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. The film's unique daylight horror contrasts with traditional dark settings, amplifying the sense of dread through its eerily bright and beautiful environment. Both films use their unsettling atmospheres to explore deeper psychological fears, making the horror feel all the more invasive. In Midsommar, the disturbing rituals and the protagonist's sense of isolation mirror the psychological and emotional terror depicted in Smile. For instance, the rituals in Midsommar, such as the "bear suit" scene, are designed to shock and disorient, much like the haunting smile in Smile that disturbs the protagonist's sense of reality. The film’s approach to horror through the juxtaposition of a picturesque setting with horrifying events enhances its psychological impact, making it a fitting recommendation for those who appreciate Smile's eerie and unsettling tone.

Midsommar was widely praised for its originality and the unsettling atmosphere created by its daylight horror. Critics have noted how the film's psychological depth and disturbing imagery make it a standout in the horror genre. Its exploration of grief and the disintegration of relationships is presented with a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic, contributing to its disturbing impact.

Ari Aster’s meticulous attention to detail and his innovative approach to horror are evident throughout the film. His use of color and light to create a disturbing contrast between the serene setting and the horrific events is a deliberate choice that enhances the viewer's sense of unease. The film's slow-burn tension and psychological complexity are akin to the methods used in Smile to build suspense and terror.

The immersive experience of Midsommar is heightened by its unsettling soundtrack and atmospheric score, which work in tandem with the film’s visual style to create a unique sense of dread. The film's ability to unsettle viewers through its combination of psychological and supernatural horror makes it a compelling watch for fans of Smile.

It Follows (March 3, 2015)

• Running Time: 100 minutes
• Produced By: Northern Lights Films, Animal Kingdom, Two Flints

It Follows centers on Jay, a young woman who, after a sexual encounter, becomes the target of a supernatural entity that relentlessly pursues her. The entity can take on any human form but is always visible to her. Jay must figure out how to escape or confront this malevolent force that brings with it a pervasive sense of dread and urgency.

Both It Follows and Smile utilize a supernatural threat that creates a constant sense of dread for their protagonists. In It Follows, the entity’s unrelenting pursuit mirrors the persistent and unsettling presence of the haunted smile in Smile. Each film crafts a chilling atmosphere through its unique supernatural premise—It Follows with its ever-present entity and Smile with its disturbing smile motif. The unceasing tension in It Follows, where the entity’s presence is both physically and psychologically oppressive, is akin to the emotional and mental strain experienced by the characters in Smile.

It Follows was lauded for its originality and for redefining the horror genre. The film’s innovative approach to the horror trope of being followed and the eerie, synth-heavy soundtrack were particularly praised. The tension and fear derived from the constant threat of the entity contribute to its effectiveness as a psychological horror film.

David Robert Mitchell’s direction emphasizes a sense of paranoia and isolation. His choice to use a retro aesthetic and a haunting score intensifies the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The slow, deliberate pace at which the entity advances creates a unique kind of horror that builds suspense without relying on typical jump scares. This method of horror, focusing on the psychological and emotional impact of being followed, aligns well with the fear and unease depicted in Smile.

The sense of impending doom in It Follows is heightened by the film’s unsettling visuals and sound design. The entity’s ability to take on any form adds a layer of unpredictability that keeps viewers on edge. The psychological torment of knowing that the entity is always there, yet never clearly visible, mirrors the psychological horror in Smile, where the protagonist’s fear is amplified by the haunting and inescapable presence of the malevolent smile.

One of the most memorable scenes in It Follows involves a character discovering that the entity can appear as anyone, including people they know. This revelation enhances the sense of paranoia and fear, paralleling the unsettling and omnipresent nature of the smile in Smile. The scene where Jay is alone in her house, constantly looking over her shoulder as she senses the entity closing in, exemplifies the film’s ability to generate suspense and psychological tension.

Hereditary (June 8, 2018)

• Running Time: 127 minutes
• Produced By: A24, Palmstar Media, Finch Entertainment, Windy Hill Pictures

Hereditary follows the Graham family as they deal with the death of their reclusive grandmother, Ellen. As they begin to uncover dark family secrets and unsettling occurrences, they realize that their family is cursed by a malevolent force. The film delves deeply into themes of grief, trauma, and the impact of inherited darkness.

Both Hereditary and Smile explore the deep-seated psychological and emotional trauma that haunts their characters. Hereditary delves into the family's unraveling due to hidden, malevolent forces that echo the personal and supernatural dread experienced in Smile. The profound impact of trauma in Hereditary—both inherited and personal—creates a similar unsettling atmosphere to that of Smile, where the psychological horror intertwines with the supernatural to generate fear.

Hereditary was widely acclaimed for its intense, disturbing atmosphere and its innovative approach to the horror genre. Critics praised Toni Collette’s powerful performance as Annie Graham, highlighting her portrayal of a mother unraveling under the weight of grief and family secrets. The film’s use of unsettling imagery and its slow-building tension were noted for creating a deeply unsettling experience.

Ari Aster’s directorial debut presents a meticulously crafted narrative that combines psychological horror with a disturbing supernatural twist. Aster’s attention to detail and the film’s ominous tone are amplified by its disturbing visuals and eerie sound design. The exploration of family dynamics and the impact of grief on the characters’ mental state contribute to the film's chilling effect, drawing parallels to the psychological and emotional depth in Smile.

The horror in Hereditary is deeply rooted in the psychological and familial conflicts of the Graham family. The gradual revelation of the family's dark secrets, combined with the increasingly unsettling supernatural elements, creates a palpable sense of dread. Scenes such as the disturbing sequence of Annie’s family members encountering terrifying apparitions and the harrowing climax involving ritualistic elements contribute to the film’s reputation as a modern horror masterpiece. This use of psychological horror and supernatural terror resonates with the haunting elements of Smile.

The scene involving the eerie, hidden attic, where the family discovers disturbing artifacts related to their grandmother’s occult practices, is a key moment that heightens the film’s sense of dread. Similarly, the climactic scene where the family confronts the horrifying truth about their curse is a powerful demonstration of the film’s ability to merge psychological trauma with supernatural horror. These moments of intense, unsettling horror are comparable to the unnerving atmosphere and psychological tension present in Smile.

Truth or Dare (April 13, 2018)

• Running Time: 100 minutes
• Produced By: Blumhouse Productions

Truth or Dare follows a group of college friends who play a seemingly innocent game of Truth or Dare while on vacation in Mexico. The game takes a sinister turn when a supernatural force begins to control their actions, punishing them for failing to comply with the game's demands. As the friends try to uncover the origins of the curse and survive its deadly consequences, they face a series of escalating and deadly challenges.

Both Truth or Dare and Smile explore the idea of an innocuous or familiar concept turning malevolent. In Truth or Dare, the game of Truth or Dare becomes a deadly and supernatural force, much like how a seemingly simple smile in Smile becomes a source of profound horror. Both films leverage everyday elements—games and smiles—turning them into vessels for psychological and supernatural terror.

Truth or Dare received mixed reviews from critics. While some appreciated its high-energy premise and the creativity of its supernatural twist, others felt it lacked depth and character development. Nonetheless, the film was noted for its ability to generate suspense and deliver jump scares, making it a serviceable addition to the teen horror genre. The film’s premise, with its blend of supernatural horror and teenage drama, aligns with the tension and fear experienced in Smile.

Directed by Jeff Wadlow, Truth or Dare brings a modern twist to the classic party game, infusing it with a supernatural threat. Wadlow's direction emphasizes suspense and horror through a combination of eerie settings and high-stakes scenarios. The film’s pacing and jump scares are designed to keep viewers on edge, similar to the suspenseful buildup in Smile. The incorporation of modern technology and social media into the horror elements reflects a contemporary approach to psychological and supernatural horror.

The film creates a tense atmosphere through its fast-paced plot and escalating stakes. Scenes such as the terrifying dares that force characters into dangerous and morally questionable situations contribute to the film’s overall sense of dread. The supernatural element of the game’s curse adds a layer of urgency and fear as characters mustconfront their darkest fears and secrets. This dynamic is reminiscent of the psychological terror and suspense found in Smile, where the horror evolves from an initially innocuous source into a deeply unsettling experience.

One of the most memorable scenes involves a character being coerced into performing a dangerous dare, leading to a tragic and shocking outcome. This moment exemplifies how the film’s supernatural elements create high-stakes, nerve-wracking scenarios. Additionally, the scenes where the characters struggle to decipher the rules of the curse and find a way to break it mirror the escalating tension and fear found in Smile, as both films explore the consequences of confronting supernatural forces.

The Babadook (January 17, 2014)

• Running Time: 94 minutes
• Produced By: Entertainment One, Smoking Gun Productions, Causeway Films

The Babadook centers on Amelia, a grieving mother, and her troubled young son, Samuel. The story begins when they discover a mysterious children’s book titled "Mister Babadook" in their home. The book tells the tale of a sinister entity that terrorizes its victims. As the Babadook begins to manifest in their lives, Amelia and Samuel face escalating horrors that push them to the brink of madness, revealing deep-seated fears and emotional trauma.

Both The Babadook and Smile delve into the psychological impact of trauma and grief, using supernatural elements to explore these themes. While Smile utilizes the haunting concept of a cursed smile to drive its horror, The Babadook focuses on a malevolent entity that symbolizes and amplifies the protagonist’s inner turmoil. Both films create an intense atmosphere of psychological dread and fear, rooted in the characters' personal struggles.

The Babadook was widely praised by critics for its unique approach to horror and its exploration of psychological themes. Director Jennifer Kent’s use of the Babadook character as a metaphor for grief and mental illness received acclaim for adding depth to the horror genre. The film’s ability to evoke genuine fear through its exploration of personal trauma and its portrayal of the protagonist's mental state contributed to its status as a modern horror classic. The film has been noted for its emotional depth and its chilling depiction of a supernatural force that mirrors real-life struggles, much like Smile.

Jennifer Kent's direction in The Babadook emphasizes psychological horror by intertwining the supernatural with deeply personal issues. The film's atmosphere is tense and unsettling, achieved through a combination of unsettling imagery and a haunting score. Kent’s focus on Amelia's deteriorating mental state and her strained relationship with her son parallels the psychological intensity found in Smile. Both films use their supernatural elements to explore themes of fear and isolation, making the horror feel more personal and impactful.

The Babadook creates a pervasive sense of dread through its effective use of claustrophobic settings and the gradual build-up of tension. The film's depiction of Amelia’s struggle with the Babadook reflects the emotional and psychological horror experienced in Smile. Scenes such as the increasingly disturbing occurrences tied to the Babadook and the gradual unraveling of Amelia's sanity contribute to a deeply unsettling experience. The film’s ability to evoke fear through its exploration of grief and mental illness offers a compelling parallel to the psychological horror seen in Smile.

One of the most memorable scenes in The Babadook involves Amelia’s terrifying encounters with the Babadook entity, particularly in the confines of her home. The chilling atmosphere and the emotional intensity of these scenes enhance the film’s psychological horror. Additionally, the scenes where Amelia's behavior becomes increasingly erratic as she is consumed by the Babadook's influence mirror the psychological unraveling depicted in Smile. These moments underscore the film’s exploration of inner demons and the impact of unresolved trauma.

Umma (March 18, 2022)

• Running Time: 83 minutes
• Produced By: Stage 6 Films, Raimi Productions, Starlight Media

Umma follows Sandra, a Korean-American woman living a peaceful life on a secluded farm with her daughter, Chris. Their tranquility is disrupted when Sandra receives her estranged mother’s ashes from Korea. The arrival of the ashes brings supernatural disturbances and a series of unsettling events, revealing long-buried family secrets and unspoken tensions. As Sandra confronts her past and the vengeful spirit of her mother, she faces terrifying manifestations that threaten her sanity and her relationship with Chris.

Both Umma and Smile utilize the supernatural as a vehicle to explore deep-seated personal trauma and unresolved family issues. In Umma, the supernatural disturbances are tied to family estrangement and the cultural significance of ancestral connections, similar to how Smile uses the concept of a haunting smile to delve into themes of personal and psychological dread. Both films create a sense of unease by intertwining their supernatural elements with emotional and familial conflicts.

Umma is notable for its exploration of Korean cultural themes and the impact of family traditions on personal identity. The film delves into the significance of ancestral spirits and cultural practices surrounding death and remembrance. This cultural context adds a unique layer to the horror, distinguishing it from other films in the genre. The depiction of Sandra’s struggle with her mother’s spirit highlights the clash between traditional beliefs and modern life, adding depth to the supernatural elements of the story. This cultural exploration parallels Smile's use of psychological themes to enhance its horror narrative.

The film received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who praised its atmospheric tension and cultural elements. Reviewers noted that Umma effectively combines supernatural horror with emotional storytelling, creating a compelling narrative about family dynamics and unresolved grief. The film's ability to evoke fear through its exploration of cultural and personal themes has been highlighted as a strength, offering a distinctive take on the horror genre that resonates with Smile's thematic approach.

Directed by Iris K. Shim, Umma employs a restrained and atmospheric style to build tension. Shim's direction focuses on the psychological impact of the supernatural events, emphasizing Sandra’s emotional turmoil and the eerie atmosphere surrounding the farm. The film’s slow-burn approach to horror, combined with its exploration of personal and cultural trauma, aligns with the psychological depth seen in Smile. Both films use their supernatural elements to explore deeper emotional and psychological themes, enhancing the overall sense of dread.

Umma creates an unsettling atmosphere through its depiction of supernatural occurrences and the gradual unraveling of Sandra’s mental state. The film's portrayal of disturbing visions and the impact of the ancestral spirit on Sandra’s life mirrors the psychological horror found in Smile. Key scenes, such as the unsettling disturbances linked to the ashes and Sandra’s confrontation with her mother’s spirit, contribute to a sense of mounting dread. The film’s focus on familial and cultural trauma adds an extra layer of psychological intensity, similar to the emotional depth explored in Smile.

One particularly notable scene in Umma involves Sandra’s confrontation with the supernatural disturbances tied to her mother’s ashes. This scene exemplifies the film’s ability to blend cultural and psychological horror, creating a chilling experience that resonates with the emotional and supernatural themes of Smile. The portrayal of Sandra’s deteriorating mental state and the eerie manifestations of her mother’s spirit contribute to a deeply unsettling atmosphere, highlighting the film’s thematic connections to Smile.

Scream (December 20, 1996)

• Running Time: 111 minutes
• Produced By: Woods Entertainment, Dimension Films

Scream is a genre-defining slasher film that revitalized the horror genre in the late 90s. Directed by Wes Craven, it follows a group of high school students who become the targets of a masked killer known as Ghostface. The killer taunts his victims with horror movie trivia and uses the rules of the slasher genre to commit his murders. As the body count rises, the survivors must unravel the mystery of Ghostface’s identity while dealing with their own fears and suspicions.

Both Scream and Smile feature a masked antagonist whose presence brings an atmosphere of dread and suspense. Scream reinvigorated the slasher genre with its self-aware, meta-commentary on horror tropes, while Smile uses a similarly eerie and unsettling motif—the haunting smile—to generate psychological horror. Both films also emphasize the tension and fear of the unknown, using their unique antagonists to explore themes of terror and paranoia.

Scream is credited with sparking a revival in the horror genre by blending traditional slasher elements with a fresh, self-referential approach. Its success led to a resurgence in horror films and spawned multiple sequels and a television series. The film’s clever script and innovative take on horror conventions have made it a seminal work in the genre, influencing countless films that followed. This reinvention of horror parallels Smile’s innovative use of the haunted smile to create a fresh approach to psychological terror.

One of the film's most iconic scenes is the opening sequence where Drew Barrymore’s character is brutally murdered while on the phone with the killer. This scene effectively sets the tone for the film and showcases its ability to blend suspense with shocking moments. The blending of humor and horror, as seen in the characters’ witty banter and the film’s meta-commentary, adds depth to the suspense, making it a compelling watch for fans of psychological and supernatural horror, similar to the multifaceted approach in Smile.

Wes Craven’s direction in Scream balances traditional slasher elements with a modern, self-aware sensibility. Craven’s ability to infuse humor and meta-commentary into the horror genre revitalized the slasher film, making it both a critical and commercial success. This innovative approach to horror is akin to the fresh perspective Smile brings to psychological horror, utilizing unique motifs to explore fear and suspense.

The film’s combination of suspenseful plotting, sharp dialogue, and self-aware humor creates an engaging viewing experience. The intricate mystery of Ghostface’s identity and the film’s playful take on horror conventions keep viewers on edge, much like the psychological tension and supernatural elements in Smile. Scream's ability to intertwine fear with clever storytelling resonates with fans who appreciate a mix of suspense and thematic depth in horror films.

Gothika (November 21, 2003)

• Running Time: 98 minutes
• Produced By: Warner Bros., Columbia Pictures, Dark Castle Entertainment

Gothika centers on Dr. Miranda Grey, a prison psychiatrist who becomes a patient in her own facility after being accused of murdering her husband. As she tries to prove her innocence, she is haunted by visions of a ghostly woman who reveals disturbing truths about the murder and the facility’s dark past. The film explores themes of guilt, sanity, and supernatural influence as Miranda uncovers the truth behind the haunting.

Both Gothika and Smile blend psychological horror with supernatural elements, focusing on the protagonist's struggle to convince others of their experiences. In Gothika, Miranda’s fight to prove her sanity and uncover the truth mirrors the psychological torment experienced by the characters in Smile. Both films utilize eerie atmospheres and supernatural disturbances to create a sense of dread and suspense.

Gothika received mixed reviews, with praise for Halle Berry’s performance and the film’s atmospheric tension. Critics noted the film’s engaging premise and its effective use of supernatural elements to explore themes of guilt and redemption. The film’s ability to create a compelling narrative through its blend of psychological and supernatural horror aligns with Smile’s thematic exploration of fear and mental anguish.

The film’s unsettling moments, such as Miranda’s visions of the ghostly woman and the eerie revelations about the prison’s past, contribute to its tense and eerie atmosphere. These scenes effectively build suspense and create a chilling experience for viewers, similar to the psychological and supernatural horror depicted in Smile. The film’s exploration of guilt and redemption adds a layer of emotional depth to the horror, enhancing the overall sense of dread.

Directed by Mathieu Kassovitz, Gothika combines psychological and supernatural horror with a focus on the protagonist’s emotional and mental struggles. Kassovitz’s direction emphasizes the tension and suspense of the narrative, using atmospheric settings and supernatural elements to heighten the sense of fear. This approach parallels the psychological depth and eerie atmosphere found in Smile, creating a compelling and immersive horror experience.

Polaroid (October 11, 2019)

• Running Time: 88 minutes
• Produced By: Dimension Films, Eldorado Film, Vertigo Entertainment, Benderspink

Polaroid follows high school student Bird Fitcher, who discovers an old polaroid camera at a garage sale. When her friends start taking pictures with it, they realize that the camera has a sinister curse—anyone who is photographed will meet a grisly fate. As the body count rises, Bird must unravel the mystery of the camera’s origins and find a way to break the curse before it claims more lives.

Both Polaroid and Smile feature seemingly ordinary objects that become sources of supernatural terror. In Polaroid, the cursed camera creates a sense of impending doom similar to the unsettling smile in Smile. Both films use their central supernatural elements to build tension and explore themes of fear and fatalism.

The film’s central concept of a cursed object adds an extra layer of suspense as characters attempt to evade their grim fates. The use of a seemingly benign object, like a camera, as a conduit for horror parallels Smile’s use of the haunting smile to create a pervasive sense of dread. The film’s exploration of the curse and its consequences enhances the tension, making it a gripping experience for fans of supernatural horror.

Polaroid received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its inventive premise and effective scares. The film’s use of the cursed camera as a source of terror adds a unique twist to the horror genre, similar to the innovative approach seen in Smile. The film’s ability to create suspense and deliver chills aligns with the psychological and supernatural elements found in Smile.

Key scenes, such as the discovery of the cursed camera and the ensuing deaths of the characters, contribute to the film’s eerie atmosphere. The tension builds as the curse’s effects become more apparent, creating a chilling experience that mirrors the unsettling and suspenseful tone of Smile. The film’s use of the camera as a source of fear adds a distinctive element to the horror narrative, enhancing the overall impact.

Directed by Lars Klevberg, Polaroid employs a blend of supernatural and slasher elements to create suspense and fear. Klevberg’s direction focuses on the eerie nature of the cursed object and its psychological impact on the characters. This approach, along with the film’s atmospheric setting and tense pacing, aligns with the thematic exploration of fear and dread found in Smile.

Drag Me To Hell (May 29, 2009)

• Running Time: 99 minutes
• Produced By: Ghost House Pictures

Directed by Sam Raimi, Drag Me To Hell follows Christine Brown, a loan officer who denies a request for an extension on a mortgage to an elderly woman. As a result, Christine becomes the target of a demonic curse that drags her toward Hell. The film combines Raimi’s signature blend of horror and dark humor, resulting in a thrilling and unsettling experience as Christine fights to break the curse before it’s too late.

Both films explore the concept of a supernatural curse impacting the protagonist’s life, creating a pervasive sense of dread and urgency. In Drag Me To Hell, the curse manifests in terrifying and grotesque ways, much like the eerie smile in Smile serves as a harbinger of psychological and supernatural terror. Both films use their central supernatural elements to drive the narrative and heighten the sense of impending doom.

Drag Me To Hell was praised for its effective blend of horror and dark humor, reminiscent of Raimi’s earlier works like Evil Dead. The film’s ability to deliver both scares and laughs while maintaining a relentless pace mirrors Smile’s approach to creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere. Critics appreciated the film’s practical effects and creative scares, enhancing its appeal to fans of supernatural horror.

Notable scenes include Christine’s nightmarish encounters with the demon, such as the scene where the demon attacks her in her car and the horrifying climax where she is dragged towards Hell. These scenes are characterized by their visceral impact and effective use of practical effects, contributing to the film’s intense and frightening atmosphere. This focus on creating memorable scares aligns with the psychological horror experienced in Smile.

Sam Raimi’s direction emphasizes the film’s blend of horror and humor, using dynamic camera work and practical effects to heighten the sense of terror. Raimi’s approach to blending supernatural horror with moments of dark comedy provides a unique viewing experience, similar to how Smile balances psychological tension with eerie supernatural elements.

The Purge (June 7, 2013)

• Running Time: 85 minutes
• Produced By: Blumhouse Productions, Platinum Dunes

The Purge is set in a dystopian future where, for one night a year, all crime, including murder, is legal. The film follows the Sandin family as they attempt to survive the chaos and violence that ensues when their home is breached by masked intruders seeking refuge from the purge. The film explores themes of societal breakdown and moral ambiguity as the characters confront their darkest fears.

Both The Purge and Smile feature menacing antagonists and a pervasive sense of dread. The Purge creates tension through the idea of a lawless night where violence is unchecked, while Smile uses the haunting smile as a symbol of the supernatural threat. Both films effectively use their central concepts to explore fear and survival in extreme situations.

The Purge has become a significant part of modern horror, inspiring multiple sequels and a television series. The film’s exploration of societal breakdown and the concept of sanctioned violence have sparked discussions about morality and fear. This thematic depth and the film’s innovative concept resonate with the unique approach Smile takes to psychological horror.

The film’s tension peaks with scenes such as the Sandin family’s desperate attempts to protect their home and the brutal confrontations with the intruders. The use of masks and the constant threat of violence create a chilling atmosphere that parallels the sense of unease and danger in Smile. The film’s depiction of a night of lawlessness contributes to its intense and frightening experience.

James DeMonaco’s direction focuses on creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere through a combination of social commentary and horror. DeMonaco’s ability to blend political themes with a survival horror narrative enhances the film’s impact, similar to how Smile integrates psychological and supernatural elements to create a compelling horror experience.

The Ring (October 18, 2002)

• Running Time: 115 minutes
• Produced By: Benderspink, Vertigo Entertainment, MacDonald/Parkes Production

Directed by Gore Verbinski, The Ring follows journalist Rachel Keller as she investigates a cursed videotape that causes viewers to die within seven days of watching it. As Rachel uncovers the origins of the tape and its connection to a young girl who was drowned years earlier, she races against time to break the curse and save herself and her loved ones from a grim fate.

Both films use a curse-based narrative to create suspense and horror. In The Ring, the videotape serves as a medium for supernatural terror, much like the haunting smile in Smile. Both films explore the fear of an inevitable and unseen threat, driving the narrative with a sense of urgency and dread.

The Ring was well-received for its atmospheric tension and eerie storytelling. The film’s ability to combine supernatural horror with a gripping mystery was praised, and its success contributed to the resurgence of American remakes of Asian horror films. This innovative approach to horror mirrors Smile’s use of a unique concept to evoke fear and suspense.

Key scenes include the discovery of the cursed videotape and the terrifying moments leading up to the deaths of the characters who watch it. The film’s use of disturbing imagery and the haunting depiction of the cursed girl add to its chilling atmosphere. These elements contribute to a suspenseful and memorable horror experience, similar to the unsettling tone in Smile.

Gore Verbinski’s direction emphasizes the film’s eerie and suspenseful atmosphere through effective use of visual and auditory elements. The film’s combination of supernatural horror with a compelling mystery creates a gripping narrative that resonates with fans of psychological and supernatural horror, akin to the chilling experience of Smile.

Goodnight Mommy (September 16, 2022)

• Running Time: 92 minutes
• Produced By: Playtime, Animal Kingdom, Big Indie Pictures

Goodnight Mommy follows twin brothers who become suspicious of their mother, who has returned home after undergoing facial surgery and is covered in bandages. As the boys question her identity and behavior, they uncover disturbing secrets and confront unsettling truths about their family. The film explores themes of trust, identity, and psychological horror.

Both films delve into themes of psychological horror and mistrust. In Goodnight Mommy, the boys’ growing paranoia and the eerie atmosphere create a sense of dread similar to the unsettling nature of the smile in Smile. Both films use psychological tension to explore the darker aspects of human emotions and relationships.

Goodnight Mommy received positive reviews for its tense and unsettling atmosphere, as well as the strong performances of its cast. The film’s exploration of psychological horror and its use of suspenseful storytelling were praised, aligning with the themes of fear and unease found in Smile. The film’s ability to keep viewers on edge through its psychological twists and turns contributes to its impact.

Notable scenes include the increasingly disturbing behavior of the mother and the boys’ growing suspicion of her true identity. The film’s use of suspense and psychological tension creates a chilling atmosphere that resonates with the unsettling tone of Smile. The film’s exploration of identity and trust adds depth to its horror narrative.

Directed by Matt Sobel, Goodnight Mommy focuses on creating a tense and atmospheric horror experience through psychological manipulation and unsettling imagery. Sobel’s direction emphasizes the film’s exploration of trust and identity, providing a unique and engaging viewing experience that parallels the psychological depth of Smile.

The Invisible Man (February 28, 2020)

• Running Time: 124 minutes
• Produced By: Blumhouse Productions, Goalpost Pictures, Nervous Tick Productions

Directed by Leigh Whannell, The Invisible Man follows Cecilia Kass as she escapes an abusive relationship with a wealthy scientist. After her ex-boyfriend seemingly commits suicide, Cecilia becomes haunted by the belief that he has found a way to become invisible and is tormenting her. The film explores themes of abuse, gaslighting, and psychological horror as Cecilia fights to prove her sanity and survive.

Both The Invisible Man and Smile use psychological horror to explore the impact of unseen threats on the protagonist’s mental state. In The Invisible Man, Cecilia’s struggle to convince others of the invisible menace parallels the psychological torment faced by characters in Smile. Both films create a pervasive sense of fear through their exploration of invisible and supernatural threats.

The Invisible Man received widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to the classic horror concept and Elisabeth Moss’s compelling performance. The film’s ability to blend psychological horror with social commentary on abuse and control was praised, mirroring Smile’s use of psychological and supernatural elements to create a gripping and unsettling experience.

Key scenes include the terrifying moments when Cecilia realizes she is being watched and the intense climax where she confronts her invisible tormentor. These scenes effectively build suspense and create a chilling atmosphere, similar to the psychological tension and supernatural elements in Smile. The film’s focus on the invisible antagonist enhances its impact and resonates with fans of psychological horror.

Leigh Whannell’s direction emphasizes the film’s psychological and emotional depth through the effective use of suspense and tension. Whannell’s ability to blend horror with social commentary creates a compelling and thought-provoking narrative, similar to the psychological depth and eerie atmosphere found in Smile.

"Each of these films encapsulates elements that make Smile so captivating—whether it’s the psychological tension, supernatural scares, or eerie motifs. They offer a diverse array of terrifying experiences that will keep fans of the genre on the edge of their seats."

"Delve into these recommendations to experience more of the psychological and supernatural horror that made Smile unforgettable. Each film promises to deliver spine-chilling thrills and suspense, continuing the exploration of fear and dread."

"Share your thoughts on these films or suggest other similar movies in the comments below. We’d love to hear your recommendations for the next horror film marathon!"