Get ready to dive into a chilling new chapter of the Smile universe, because this prequel comic series might just reveal the darkest corners of a world you thought you knew. While horror comics are thriving, IDW Publishing’s IDW Dark line has carved out a special place for itself by blending original ideas with spin-offs of iconic movie franchises—think Event Horizon: Dark Descent, which has fans raving. Now, IDW Dark is turning its attention to a more recent horror sensation: Smile. Smile: For the Camera takes us back into this twisted universe, crafted by the brilliant minds of writer Hannah Rose May (known for The Exorcism at 1600 Penn and The Exorcism at Buckingham Palace) and artist Miriana Puglia (of Disney Villains: Cruella De Vil fame).
But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a comic truly capture the bone-chilling essence of the Smile movies? IGN sat down with May to discuss this prequel series and its ties to the films. She revealed that the project has been in the works for over a year, with its roots tracing back to NYCC 2024, where IDW Dark first unveiled its licensed movie comics.
“This project originated at NYCC 2024 when we were debuting *The Exorcism at 1600 Penn,” May shared. *“I was on a panel for the launch of IDW Dark, and they mentioned they were reading pitches for *Smile. I’m a sucker for brilliant marketing, and Smile had one of the most genius campaigns that hooked me before I even bought a ticket. What Parker Finn has built with the Smile universe is going to terrify people for decades to come.”*
The Smile movies have undeniably struck a chord with audiences, but what’s the secret sauce? May believes it’s the blend of drama and supernatural horror. “At their core, they’re dramas with a powerful supernatural hook,” she explained. “Both Rose and Skye are grappling with trauma and guilt, forced to smile through their pain—something most of us can relate to. The entity then brings that pain to the surface in the most terrifying way.”
And this is the part most people miss: Translating that horror to the comic medium isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Yet, May argues that comics actually enhance the Smile experience. “There’s an inherent ‘show, don’t tell’ balance in comics that works perfectly for the Smile world. While our toolkit is more limited than film, we’ve channeled Parker’s filmmaking spirit into our writing, art, colors, and letters to deliver an experience that rewards fans.”
Set in 2005, Smile: For the Camera plunges into the heart of the fashion industry—a world ripe for horror. May explains, “The early 2000s were pre-social media, pre-smartphones, a time when monoculture still existed. I wanted to explore an industry where smiling is part of the job, and where monsters lurk even before the Smile entity arrives.”
The series introduces Ivy, a new protagonist who shares similarities with Rose and Skye but with one key difference: “Ivy is our fish out of water, a rookie model who isn’t burdened by trauma or guilt—yet. It’s through our story that she confronts a darkness that feeds the entity.”
Here’s the bold question: Will the comic reveal more about the Smile Entity than the movies ever did? May hints at staying true to Parker Finn’s vision while adding unexpected twists. “We didn’t want to expand the mythos too much, but Parker and Paramount let us do a few things fans will be excited to see. You’ll have to read to find out!”
Visually, the comic promises to be a treat. May praised the collaboration with artist Miriana Puglia and colorist Dearbhla Kelly, saying, “Comics are a collaborative medium, and seeing everyone’s contributions come together is magical. Our goal was to create something visually unique while honoring the Smile films. I think we’ve done that!”
Smile: For the Camera #1 drops on February 18, with preorders open until January 12. Head to your local comic shop to secure your copy. And while you’re at it, check out IGN’s best comic book of 2025 and our most anticipated comics for 2026.
Now, here’s the real question for you: Do you think a comic can truly capture the horror of the Smile universe, or is it something only movies can achieve? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
