In early October, Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker clown face returned to theaters, Art the Clown wore a creepy rictus all the way to the box office a week ago, and now a new “Smile” is giving us chills. “Smile 2” features the return of an evil presence that scares its victims (and spectators) with the creepiest smiling people you can imagine. Those in need of a good popcorn movie should give it a try, although Anna Kendrick’s directorial debut, the Netflix thriller ‘Woman of the Hour’ or ‘Young Sheldon’ spin-off ‘Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage’ might be more your speed. .

Now on to the good stuff:

Watch the horror sequel ‘Smile 2’ in theaters (if you’re not a little kid)

The first “Smile” was a hit in 2022, but I was a little carried away with it. (“Truth or Dare” grinned the wicked better.) But the sequel? Now That is a good horror film, with much better scares and an effective emotional story of a pop star (excellently played by Naomi Scott) who is already navigating tour stress and past trauma before a dark presence attaches itself to her. Because of its musical slant – and the fact that horror always appeals to children – ‘Smile 2’ will appeal to a young following, and I’ve put together a guide to what parents need to know about the film. Because it’s sufficiently bloody.

Not everyone, even adults, has to deal with rampant mutilation and blood and guts strewn everywhere. I’ve put together a collection of horror movies for people who don’t like horror movies, and some fun outings for the kids so everyone can get into the Halloween spirit.

Stream Anna Kendrick’s Netflix directorial debut ‘Woman of the Hour’

We know she can act – the first ‘Pitch Perfect’ is still playing, fam – but Anna Kendrick is also proving to be a solid filmmaker, with her confident debut ‘Woman of the Hour’ (now streaming on Netflix). Set in the 1970s, the thriller follows an aspiring actress (Kendrick) who is hired to participate in “The Dating Game,” a serial killer (Daniel Zovatto) who eventually becomes one of her potential bachelors, and the audience member ( Nicolette Robinson) who recognizes him from her past.