Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Francesco Gasperoni
Writer
- Francesco Gasperoni
Producer
- Hamid Basket
- Livia Benevento
- Robert Capelli Jr.
- Massimiliano Caroletti
- Francesco Gasperoni
- Gherardo Pagliei
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Thriller film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Smile presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Francesco Gasperoni brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Smile took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 38 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: August 28, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 24m
- Revenue: $260,150
Where to Watch




