"Screen's illusion, reality's strife; beware the power of a digital life."
"Smiley" is a 2012 horror-thriller film directed by Michael Gallagher. The movie explores the concept of an urban legend about a supernatural entity called "Smiley," who is said to appear when someone types "I did it for the lulz" three times while chatting online, and subsequently kills the person they're chatting with.
"Smiley" is a horror-thriller film that explores the idea of an online urban legend taking a sinister turn in the real world. The movie centers around Ashley, a college student who gets drawn into a creepy internet myth called "Smiley." According to the legend, if you type the phrase "I did it for the lulz" three times while video chatting, a masked figure named Smiley will appear and kill the person you're talking to.
As Ashley delves deeper into the legend, she becomes convinced that Smiley is more than just a hoax. She confides in her friend Proxy (Melanie Papalia), who introduces her to an online community that believes in Smiley's existence. Ashley decides to test the theory during a video chat, typing the phrase as instructed. Shockingly, her chat partner ends up dead, seemingly killed by Smiley.
Amidst her growing paranoia, Ashley begins experiencing strange occurrences and sightings of Smiley. She starts to question her own sanity as she witnesses more deaths that seem to be linked to the legend. Ashley's behavior becomes increasingly erratic as she struggles to decipher what is real and what is a result of her own fears.
The film keeps the audience guessing about the true nature of Smiley—whether it's a supernatural entity or a manifestation of psychological distress. As the plot unfolds, Ashley's grip on reality loosens, leading to a climax that reveals the truth behind the legend and the forces at play.
"Smiley" attempts to tap into the fear of the unknown that the internet can bring, as well as the psychological toll of urban legends taking on a life of their own. The film explores themes of paranoia, the dangers of anonymity online, and the potential consequences of believing in something without concrete evidence.
Despite its intriguing premise, "Smiley" has been criticized for its execution, including its writing, acting, and use of horror elements. Many viewers found the scares to be ineffective and the plot to be convoluted. While the film presents an interesting concept, its shortcomings have contributed to its mixed reception within the horror genre. If you're a fan of low-budget horror films or intrigued by the concept of internet-related horror, you might find some interest in "Smiley." However, if you're looking for a truly engaging and well-executed horror experience, you might want to explore other options.
Director: Michael J. Gallagher.
Stars: Caitlin Gerard, Melanie Papalia, Keith David and Shane Dawson
Genres: Horror, Mystery & thriller.
Rating: R
Running Time: 1h 35m.
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