This list is dedicated to Smile which as we all know is a facial expression. The list is dedicated to movies that are named after emotions and facial expressions. This below is not in order or complete, just a selection…

Misery (1990)

Starring the great James Caan and Kathy Bates. Rob Rainer’s psychological horror thriller based on Stephen King’s 1987 novel. When super fan meets romance writer, who takes her obsession to another level. Paul Sheldon (Caan) gets trapped in a blizzard knocking him out unconscious. Only to find himself strapped to a bed by a nurse Annie Wilkes who takes him to her remote home. After reading his new script (Misery), Annie burst into rage and Paul is now a prisoner. Some may argue this is an horror, regardless it’s one of the very few horror films to win a oscar, with Bates winning best actress that year.

Fear (1996)

Together forever or else. Mark Wahlberg and Reece Witherspoon star in this psychological thriller. Which the perfect life of a wealthy family is threatened when their daughter dates a mysterious young man. The film was ripped to shreds by the critics which was called Fatal Attraction for young adults. Despite the poor reviews it help launch the careers of the leading two actors.

Joy (2015)

David O’Russell’s biographical comedy-drama starring Jennifer Lawrence. The story of self made millionaire Joy Mangano who created her own business empire creating the miracle mop. Lawrence received lots of praise for her performance earning her nominations and awards along the way. The movie itself received mixed reviews.

Happiness (1998)

Todd Solonz’s black indie comedy that portrays the lives of three sisters, their families, and those around them. The film did have some controversial story lines including one of the characters who is a paedophile who was obsessed with the young boy in the film. Winning award at Cannes Film Festival that year. Dylan Baker, Jared Harris, Phillip Seymour Hoffman all star.

Lust, Caution (2007)

Ang Lee’s arthouse erotic drama starring Tony Leung, Tang Wei. Set in Hong Kong 1938, a tense, sensual and beautifully-shot espionage film. When a secret agent must seduce and kill someone who is working for the puppet Japanese government ruling from Shanghai.

Pride (2014)

Matthew Warchus historical comedy drama starring Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, George MacKay, Paddy Considine. Based on a true story, the film depicts a group of lesbian and gay activists who raised money to help families affected by the British miners’ strike in 1984, at the outset of what would become the Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners campaign.

Shame (2011)

Steve McQueen’s psychological erotic drama starring Michael Fassbender as Brandon lives in New York City. His life looks normal but behind the curtains he is a sex addict. He constantly gratifys himself and his world comes crashing down when his sister (Carey Mulligan) comes to live with him. Forcing him to confront his addiction head on.

Notables

Doubt (2008), Love (2015), Hysteria (2011), Passion (2012), Melancholia (2011), Contempt (1963), Serenity (2005)

Smile is still in UK and Irish Cinemas.