The Conjuring 2

REVIEW:

The Conjuring 2 establishes its unnerving atmosphere from the very first moments, beginning with the studio logos drenched in dark and gloomy visuals. This subtle touch immediately creates a sense of foreboding, setting the perfect tone for the film. The score intensifies this mood with its haunting, ghostly sounds, which creep into your subconscious, making even the quietest scenes feel oppressive. James Wan, who’s known for his masterful control of tension and suspense, delivers a terrifying backdrop that lingers throughout the entire movie, keeping audiences on edge from start to finish.

The film opens with a chilling look at the infamous Amityville haunting, a paranormal case that’s arguably one of the most recognised in popular culture. While this brief sequence effectively sets the stage, I was relieved that The Conjuring 2 didn’t dwell on this overdone storyline. The Amityville case has been rehashed in countless films, and I appreciated Wan’s decision to shift the focus to the lesser-known but equally disturbing Enfield haunting. By exploring new ground, the film feels fresh, and the Enfield case brings with it a unique sense of dread and intrigue.

James Wan’s return to the director’s chair is a welcome one, especially after the lukewarm reception to Annabelle. Here, Wan recaptures the magic and tension that made the original Conjuring so effective. His pacing and use of slow-build scares are top-notch, and he once again demonstrates why he’s considered a master of modern horror. What elevates this film even more is the fact that it’s based on real-life events. For me, knowing that these events have some basis in reality adds a terrifying layer to the experience. For instance, learning that police officers are on record stating they witnessed objects move on their own is bone-chilling. While the film undoubtedly exaggerates some moments for dramatic effect, having law enforcement validate parts of the story makes the haunting feel even more credible, adding to the unease.

That said, the movie isn’t without its faults. One issue I had was with the CGI, particularly in the portrayal of the Crooked Man. I’ve always believed that practical effects in horror are far more effective than CGI, and the Crooked Man’s animated appearance broke the immersion for me. His cartoonish design took me out of the experience, even if only briefly. However, this misstep is quickly forgiven thanks to the abundance of genuinely terrifying moments throughout the film. James Wan ensures that the overall atmosphere and tension remain gripping, pulling you right back into the fear.

Madison Wolfe, who plays Janet Hodgson, is nothing short of remarkable. Her performance as the tormented child at the centre of the haunting is incredibly convincing and emotionally powerful. Wolfe brings a mix of vulnerability and strength to the role, embodying the fear, confusion, and distress that Janet endures. I was genuinely surprised to learn that Wolfe is American, as her British accent is flawless. Her ability to carry much of the film’s emotional weight makes Janet’s predicament even more believable and unsettling, helping to ground the supernatural elements in a very human story.

As always, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga deliver excellent performances as Ed and Lorraine Warren. Their on-screen chemistry continues to be one of the strongest aspects of the franchise. They portray the Warrens with such sincerity and warmth that you find yourself invested in their relationship just as much as the paranormal investigation. Their dynamic brings an emotional core to the film, and by now, audiences are watching for the Warrens just as much as for the scares. Additionally, the film cleverly raises questions about the authenticity of the Enfield haunting. While we, the audience, are shown the terrifying reality of the situation, the movie also presents the scepticism surrounding the case. For example, Janet is caught faking an incident, which she claims was coerced by the malevolent entity threatening to harm her family. This nuanced approach adds layers to the story, making it more complex and engaging.

In conclusion, The Conjuring 2 is a triumphant return to form for James Wan and the Conjuring universe. While it has a few missteps with the use of CGI, the overall atmosphere, performances, and scares make it a standout entry in the franchise. The film’s focus on a fresh haunting, coupled with its grounding in real-life events, makes for a thrilling and unsettling experience. Madison Wolfe shines in her role as Janet, and Wilson and Farmiga continue to elevate the series with their stellar performances as the Warrens. It’s a gripping, terrifying ride that solidifies Wan’s reputation as one of the top directors in modern horror.