'Smile 2' director shares reason to cast Jack Nicholson's son in horror flick

Parker Finn, director of Smile 2, has unveiled why he decided to cast Jack Nicholson’s son, Ray in his horror project.

Finn has often mentioned Jack starrer The Shining to be his favourite films of all time. Therefore, he told Entertainment Weekly that Ray’s casting is kind of a tribute to The Batman stars evergreen horror flick of the 1980, directed by Stanley Kubrick.

In a statement, the filmmaker added: “I think I’m always trying to reference The Shining."

“With Ray, he auditioned for that role. The audition was so strong. Of course, Jack Nicholson is one of my favorite actors of all time. I love that Ray has very strong genes, and his smile, instantly, I was like, ‘Oh my God, it’s like looking at a young Jack”, finn stated.

He went on to say: “What really struck me was how well he slipped into that venomous but charming character he’s playing in the film. He could bring again that feeling of, I’m really, really anxious, but part of it is also tickling me.”

With Ray’s casting in Smile 2, many fans drew out comparison between the father and son. The former, while commenting on this contrast, told Deadline at the premiere.

“He’s my inspiration. I ate dinner with him every night. I studied it, that’s how I learned to be a human being. So, of course we’re gonna be kind of similar,” he said, adding that he lists his father as his “hero.”

The horror-mystery film, distributed by Paramount Pictures, released on October 18, 2024. It also stars; Naomi Scott, Kyle Gallner, Dylan Gelula and many more.