The Smile franchise is expanding its nightmare-inducing universe with a trip back to 1995. Following two spine-chilling films, IDW Publishing is launching Any Given Smile, a five-issue prequel series that transplants the entity's curse into the high-stakes world of professional football. Written by Stephanie Williams with art by Pablo Collar, colors by Triona Farrell, and letters by Ariana Maher, the first issue hits shelves on September 23. Collider got an early look, and without spoiling the twists, it's clear the franchise's signature grin remains as unsettling as ever on the page.
Set in St. Augustine, Florida, Any Given Smile unfolds as the American Arena League gears up for its 20th anniversary championship game. The Sharks have unexpectedly turned to backup quarterback Maximillian Dupree, thrusting him into the spotlight with immense pressure from teammates and fans alike. But Dupree carries more than just the weight of the game—he's also drowning in debts to the city's gambling underworld. As the big game approaches, a series of mysterious deaths begins to plague St. Augustine, and a sports journalist starts investigating a possible link to the championship. Meanwhile, increasingly disturbing visions make it hard for anyone to trust their own eyes.
Why 'Any Given Smile' Nails the Franchise's Unsettling Vibe
Without giving away where Williams takes the story, it's safe to say Any Given Smile understands what makes the Smile movies so terrifying. The films thrive on anticipation—the dread of knowing something horrible could lurk around any corner, but never knowing exactly when it will strike. Williams and Collar translate that anxiety brilliantly to the comic medium, crafting several moments where simply turning the page delivers a jump-scare-like jolt.
The 1995 football setting gives Any Given Smile a distinct identity from either movie. Sports radio chatter, gambling pressures, championship fever, and Dupree's sudden shot at glory create an unusual backdrop for the curse, but it works in the story's favor. It makes the horror feel fresh while staying true to the franchise's core. This prequel also offers a fascinating glimpse into how long this nightmare has been haunting people before Rose Cotter ever encountered it. Smile and Smile 2 only revealed fragments of the entity's history, and Any Given Smile proves how easily the franchise can explore victims from completely different eras and walks of life.
For fans of horror that gets under your skin, this prequel is shaping up to be a must-read. If you're looking for more terrifying tales, check out this Netflix horror that turns your phone into a nightmare or dive into horror-comedy series that nail the mix. And if you're a gamer, you might enjoy Steam's best games to play this August.
Any Given Smile #1 goes on sale September 23. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on this chilling new chapter in the Smile saga.
