Smile
Say “cheese,” and that’s often the result: A cheesy, plastered-on fake grin in a photo. Dean Fleischer-Camp, who directs the popular “Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” videos with former “Saturday Night Live” comedian Jenny Slate, pranks his friends by asking them to pose for photos, but taking video of them instead.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1940s Australia, the children of a small, isolated town are being sent away to a Catholic orphanage. The film follows the experiences of the children as they navigate this harsh new reality, facing the challenges of separation, abuse, and the loss of innocence. It explores themes of faith, survival, and the lasting impact of trauma.
Critical Reception
Andrew Piddington's 'Smile' garnered a mixed to positive reception, with critics often praising its sensitive portrayal of a difficult subject matter and strong performances from its young cast. However, some found the pacing to be slow and the overall tone bleak. Audiences generally responded to its emotional depth and historical context.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its poignant depiction of childhood trauma and resilience.
- Noted for solid performances, particularly from the young actors.
- Some criticism for its somber tone and deliberate pacing.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews is not readily available for this film.
Fun Fact
The film was inspired by true events experienced by children sent to orphanages in Australia during the mid-20th century.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources