Is How They Smiled Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2011)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2011, How They Smiled represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Mystery, Horror, Thriller category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Bestselling New York novelist Henry Jenkins (Richard Burgi) is not a man of many words. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Mystery, Horror, Thriller are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Bestselling New York novelist Henry Jenkins (Richard Burgi) is not a man of many words. He drinks his tea and enjoys his toast, and walks no more than four blocks to seventh street to Lizzy's coffee shop, where he sits three seats away from the door. Henry has finished the final draft in his penultimate novel in the "Blood Asp" series, which have won him multiple awards over the years. Lizzy Garland (Heather Snell), on the other hand, is a woman of many words. She keeps her customers coming back with her warm spirit and inviting conversation. Henry stays for the tea, and because it takes his mind off certain things.... But he has a plan, and a machine, which if things go well, he will get them back, and will remember how they smiled..."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Richard Burgi, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Mystery. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Nicolas Wendl is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 13 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is How They Smiled truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Mystery, Horror, Thriller, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, How They Smiled explores the dichotomy of fear and discovery. The 2011 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Nicolas Wendl respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, How They Smiled is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Richard Burgi or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, How They Smiled is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.