Who ya gonna call? Ed and Lorraine Warren. A pair of real-life paranormal investigators who specialize in tracking down demon spirits. In 1971, they’re contacted to help a family haunted by a sinister ghost in their house. The Warrens’ case was loosely adapted into a Horror film titled, “The Conjuring.” Directed by James Wan. Patrick Wilson & Vera Farmiga portray the duo.
Released in 2013, (same year The Last of Us came out) it received positive reviews form critics and movie goers alike. In addition to good reception, the film made enough money at the box office. The Conjuring spawned a franchise spanning a total of eight installments. “The Nun II” is the most recent entry. James Wan’s upcoming film, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” will be released on December 20, 2023. The final installment of the DC Extended Universe or DCEU for short. Jason Momoa will portray Aquaman one last time. James Gunn’s “Superman: Legacy” will be the first installment of the planned reboot series DC Universe. Rumor has it, Jason might play Lobo within Mr. Gunn’s universe.
Anyway, its Halloween Month 2023. I’m reviewing and posting several Horror films throughout October. Which Horror films should I review next? Please leave a comment and I’ll reply back.
This review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving some of you a chance to see the first film.
Lifted & Cursed Aspects
Lifted: Patrick Wilson & Vera Farmiga both did an excellent job for their respective performances.
Other Cast Members such as Ron Livingston, Mackenzie Foy & Joey King (one of my favorite actresses) all did a decent job for their respective performances.
Fun Fact: Both Mackenzie & Joey worked with Christopher Nolan in separate films. “Interstellar” & “The Dark Knight Rises.” Both girls are good friends.
James Wan (Saw series, Insidious series, Furious 7) did a great job directing.
The Hayes Brothers wrote the script.
Scare Factor doesn’t contain numerous Jump Scares. It relies on build-up before the demon haunts the Perron Family. I prefer atmosphere over a monster suddenly popping onscreen. Atmosphere and Psychological Horror gives me the heebie jeebies. The Conjuring’s way scarier than “Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3D.” Boy, did it stink.
Set Decorators actually made the Perron Family house. It’s identical to the real one.
A combination of Practical Effects and C.G.I. were used carefully.
Annabelle appears in the Opening Scene. She later starred in a spin-off trilogy.
The Conjuring takes place in 1971. What a co-inky-dink. That’s the exact same year my parents were born.
One character’s named, Brad Hamilton.” A possible reference to Judge Reinhold’s character from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.”
Somebody shouts, “YOU CAN’T GIVE IN!” A reference to Harvey Dent’s line from “The Dark Knight.” Speaking of Batman, Christopher Nolan wrote and produced “Man of Steel” in 2013 with Zack Snyder directing the first entry of the DCEU.
If you watched a trailer for The Conjuring, Donovan’s “Hurdy Gurdy Man” was played to capture a creepy vibe. The song was also used in these movies.
- Dumb and Dumber
- Sleeper
- Man of the Year
- Zodiac
- The Best of Enemies
The last scene subtly sets up a sequel.
Cursed: Cinematography often has Shaky Cam. As if Peter Griffin on Red Bull shot the film. You know that one episode on Family Guy when Peter becomes addicted to Red Bull. “New Kidney in Town.”
I know this film is loosely based on real life, but the plot’s a carbon copy of “The Amityville Horror.” If you’ve read the book or watched either the original 1979 version or the 2005 remake, you’ll notice a couple things. Ironic the book was influenced by the Warrens’ real-life investigations.
The Final Verdict: B, FOR BIRDIE!
The Conjuring’s a great start for a franchise. If you’re curious to watch The Conjuring Universe, watch the first film before digging yourself deeper.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 