We’ve seen the spine-chilling trailers for “The Conjuring,” which have managed to make us even more weary of creaky old basements. We’re also aware that “Insidious” director James Wan knows how to make a damn good horror movie.
Going into a movie with such high expectations can often lead to disappointment. Luckily, that’s not the case here. Wan has not only outdone himself with the supernatural thriller, but he’s also made sure that audiences who chose to see the film won’t get a good night’s sleep anytime soon.
Let’s start with the fact that the film has an “American Horror Story” style opening involving one of the creepiest dolls ever captured on celluloid. From there, it’s a steady mix of “Don’t go in there!” moments and engaging performances from an impressive cast.
When Carolyn and Roger Perron (Lily Taylor and Ron Livingston) move into a New England farmhouse with their five daughters, they barely get a moment’s peace before demonic forces begin terrorizing them. Clocks stop, animals meet their demise, and grizzly figures start to appear.
The stylish flick is based on a true story, which was documented by the youngest daughter in the family, Andrea Perron, in the book “House of Darkness, House of Light.”
The family is aided by a married team of demonologists, Ed and Lorraine Warren (Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga), who discover that the house has a rather unsettling history. The Warren’s, who are best known for their work on the Amityville case, have investigated hundreds of similar cases.
Wan famously made the box office darling “Insidious” for just $1 million and proved that he can create a truly disturbing world without extensive special effects or gore.
“The Conjuring” shows his talent for prompting a terrified reaction from audiences by slowly building up dread. One of the most clever aspects of the narrative is that the demonic forces manifest to each of the characters differently.
The ’70s-inspired film is superior to most mainstream horror films in that it is both stylish and character-driven. Perhaps the portion of the film that’s so affecting, is the way in which the relationship between the Warren’s is portrayed. Their interactions are both touching and believable.
“The Conjuring” earned an R-rating, not for gore, but because it’s just so damn scary. That coupled with the film’s overwhelmingly positive buzz could make the flick one of the most successful horror films to come along in some time.
“The Conjuring” hits theaters on Friday, July 19.
