Horror movies should do what they are invented for which is
to scare. While people who claim they hate being scared still flock to
these films because of innate curiosity. The tension of waiting for the
‘big fright’ becomes part of the ghoulish fun. The most effective scary
films have built on an abundance of mood rather than gore. ‘The Conjuring
2’ fits this mould perfectly. A truly scary experience that crafts a
spooky atmosphere sure to chill the sturdiest of hearts.
In 1977, paranormal investigators Ed (Patrick Wilson) and
Lorraine (Vera Farmiga) travel to London for their latest assignment.
Meeting single mother Peggy (Francis O’Connor), they hear claims of an evil
spirit in her house. When her daughter shows sign of being possessed by
the sinister entity, Ed and Lorraine are put through their paces. Their
stoic strength is shaken when they become the target of the pure evil lurking
in the shadows drawing them to their doom.
‘The Conjuring 2’ is an effective shocker making use of its
limited budget. Pyrotechnics are not needed to generate scares but rather a
talented production crew who know where the right moment to spook an audience.
Director James Wan, a self-confessed horror fan, realises this and uses shadows
and lighting to excellent effect. He perfectly captures the feeling of
pure dread films such as ‘The Exorcist’ and ‘The Omen’ had in abundance.
The period setting goes some way in helping to encapsulate the best ‘low-tech’
horror movies by keeping it simple.
Adding to the creepy enjoyment is the engaging script.
With sceptics and police preventing them from doing their jobs, Ed and Lorraine
have their work cut out. They also have to deal with personal issues
adding another intriguing layer to the central premise. With such a good
cast, it’s easy following their odyssey with each performer never over-playing
their roles. The bewitching score and cinematography effectively
underscore the heightened realism ‘The Conjuring 2’ sets out to provide.
‘The Conjuring 2’ is a more than decent genre entry. A
relief after so many over-blown horror films, it maintains a brisk pace without
going overboard. A third outing wouldn’t be unwelcome and it will be
interesting seeing where Wan takes his characters as they further chart unknown
waters.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 8
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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