Smiley

Synopsis

Smiley is a 2012 horror film centered around a college student named Ashley, portrayed by Caitlin Gerard, who becomes entangled in a terrifying urban legend. After engaging in an online chatroom, Ashley and her friends inadvertently summon a sinister entity known as Smiley, leading to a series of harrowing events. The film explores themes of cyberbullying, internet culture, and the consequences of online actions, set against the backdrop of a suspenseful and eerie narrative. As the characters confront the dark manifestations of their online interactions, Smiley blends psychological horror with slasher elements, creating a chilling experience for fans of the genre.

Cast

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  Caitlin Gerard

  Ashley

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  Melanie Papalia

  Proxy

• 

  Shane Dawson

  Binder

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  Andrew James Allen

  Zane

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  Liza Weil

  Dr. Jenkins

• 

  Roger Bart

  Professor Clayton

Reviews

Smiley received predominantly negative reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a low rating of 3.3 out of 10, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction. Rotten Tomatoes reports a mere 17% approval rating, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. Metacritic scores the film at 25 out of 100, further underscoring the criticism it faced. Critics often cited the film's clichéd plot and lack of genuine scares. For instance, a common critique highlighted that the movie failed to effectively utilize its internet lore premise, resulting in a predictable storyline and underwhelming tension. Some reviews acknowledged Caitlin Gerard's performance as a strong point but noted that it was not enough to elevate the film. Despite its flaws, a few viewers appreciated the film's attempt to modernize urban legends within the digital age. Overall, Smiley was criticized for its uninspired execution and failure to stand out in the saturated horror market.