(Image source: Paramount Pictures)
Paramount Pictures' emerging horror IP "Smile" was a breakout hit in 2022. Produced for a modest $17 million, the film went on to gross over $200 million worldwide. Pleased with its success, Paramount quickly followed up with "Smile 2" two years later. While the sequel's box office dipped to nearly $137 million, its low production cost still ensured profitability, prompting Paramount to greenlight a third installment.
However, recent reports indicate a potential change in director for the upcoming third film. While a third installment is reportedly moving forward, news recently surfaced that Parker Finn, who wrote and directed the first two films, might not return. Two days ago, X film account Movie.Takes posted that "Smile 3" could hit theaters next fall and that Finn was highly likely to return to direct. However, renowned entertainment journalist Jeff Sneider replied to the post, stating that he had heard Finn was unlikely to continue directing.
Subsequently, horror-focused website Dread Central corroborated Sneider's report, adding that Finn's potential absence is due to scheduling conflicts. He is currently involved in developing multiple other projects and reportedly does not have time to oversee "Smile 3." There is no word yet on who will take over directing duties for the third film.
via： Dread Central