Smile (2022)

Parker Finn's feature directorial debut, *Smile* (2022), isn't just a strong contender for his best work; it is, to date, the foundational film that launched him into the horror genre's spotlight. A critical and commercial phenomenon, the psychological horror film captivated audiences with its unsettling premise: a therapist haunted by a sinister, smiling entity after witnessing a patient's traumatic suicide. Its impressive box office performance, coupled with widespread praise for its unique scares and pervasive sense of dread, firmly established Finn as a distinctive new voice in contemporary horror. What elevates *Smile* to the pinnacle of Finn's early career is his masterful execution of tension and dread, transforming a simple facial expression into a chilling harbinger of terror. Finn deftly balances visceral jump scares with a pervasive, psychological unease, crafting a narrative that intelligently explores themes of inherited trauma and mental health struggles beneath its supernatural surface. This ambitious and highly effective directorial effort not only showcased Finn's clear vision and knack for crafting truly disturbing imagery but also solidified his reputation, unequivocally earning *Smile* its place as a cornerstone and standout entry in any discussion of his best films.