In the world of horror movies, where genre conventions often overshadow the emotional depth of a character, one actress is proving that she can deliver a truly captivating and award-worthy performance. Naomi Scott, known for her versatile acting and singing talents, has taken on the role of Skye Riley in the highly anticipated sequel to the 2022 hit film, “Smile.”
Scott, who first caught the attention of audiences with her breakout role as Princess Jasmine in the live-action “Aladdin,” has once again showcased her remarkable range as an actress. In “Smile 2,” she seamlessly transitions from the glitz and glamour of a pop superstar to the harrowing emotional turmoil of a troubled celebrity facing the consequences of her past.
“Naomi is an absolute powerhouse,” raves director Parker Finn, who returns to helm the sequel. “She delivers a remarkable performance in ‘Smile 2,’ and as an unbiased member of an awards committee, I firmly believe she is deserving of recognition.” So I hope that the industry starts recognizing that.”
Scott’s dedication to the role is evident in the level of commitment she brought to the table. The British actress meticulously prepared for the role, cutting off her long, dark hair to match Skye’s distinctive bleached blonde look and immersing herself in the character’s emotional journey.
One particularly harrowing scene saw Scott slapping herself repeatedly, a decision she insisted on despite the director’s initial hesitation. “It had to happen. Indeed, the circumstances, Skye, and the narrative entirely justified everything. It was completely justified,” Scott explains.
But it’s not just her raw, physical performance that has garnered attention. Scott’s vocal talents also shine through in “Smile 2,” as she co-wrote and performed several tracks for the film’s soundtrack EP, including the hauntingly beautiful “Just My Name.”
“Music has always been a driving force for me,” Scott shares. “It’s the biggest blessing to be able to make music and create with people that I think are incredible. Therefore, achieving this goal takes precedence over any notion of pop stardom.
The actress’s dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed by her peers. Kristen Stewart, a former co-star of Scott’s, served as inspiration for Skye’s gala look, with the hair department head citing the “Twilight” star’s specific red carpet style as a reference point.
“Even though she’s a friend, she’s still Kristen Stewart, and so she’s still someone that you reference,” Scott says. “We actually referenced her through a particular look,” Scott says.
But as Scott’s star continues to rise, she’s also cognizant of the potential pitfalls that come with fame, having observed the pressures of celebrity life firsthand. In “Smile 2,” the film’s social commentary on the dark side of fame and its impact on mental health resonated deeply with the actress.
“If you remove the horror element from this movie, it transforms into a straightforward drama,” Scott explains. “Which I really love about it. But for me, the horror really only elevates the themes. It only kind of accentuates the themes.”
Scott is embracing the inevitable comparisons to her “Aladdin” character, even joking about a potential crossover between Skye Riley and Princess Jasmine.
“Funnily enough, I found out that I got this job the day I wrapped that movie. The film, ‘Eternal Return,’ is a captivating tale of love. It’s kind of whimsical. It revolves around the themes of grief, letting go, rediscovering oneself, and moving on. It’s beautiful, and it’s a very different movie from ‘Smile 2,’ with a very different character and a very different tone.”
With “Smile 2” garnering critical acclaim and her performance earning widespread praise, Naomi Scott is poised to cement her status as a true triple threat in the industry. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres, from the magical world of Disney to the gritty realities of the horror genre, is a testament to her versatility and undeniable talent.
As the awards season approaches, all eyes will be on Scott, with many hoping that the industry will finally start to recognize the power and emotional depth she brings to her craft, regardless of the genre. Naomi Scott is demonstrating that she is not just a scream queen, but a formidable presence in the horror genre.