Infection Oppression Possession
‘The Conjuring’ is a film that surpasses any amateur project such as the infamous Paranormal Activity series – in fact it might as well join the cult classics such as Amityville Horror and The Exorcism of Emily Rose.
For the past 20 years, producer Tony DeRosa-Grund has been on a journey to have the film scripted and filmed, ever since he wrote the first initial treatment. Based on an talks he conducted with the real life Ed Warren and tapes DeRosa-Grund was shown by Warren, ‘The Warren Files’ (as it was formally known) was born.
‘The Conjuring’ tells the story of Ed and Lorraine Warren (Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga) who are approached by Carolyn Perron (Lilli Taylor), whom believes the farm house her family has moved into is haunted. The Warrens are supernatural investigators and demonologists, whom regularly visit houses with families who believe something supernatural is occurring in their home.
Directed by James Wan, the film is shot and cut together smoothly  – it doesn’t hang on the script and rarely does it drag between scenes. It keeps you on edge and aware of every inch of the screen – the suspense will unhinge you.
What was so creepily refreshing about ‘The Conjuring’ was the high level of chemistry and skill within the cast. The family fit well together and the Warrens deserved more on-screen time – I’m excited that a sequel is in development. When actors can hold their on screen presence well and are missed when they are gone, they are doing their job.
If you are accustomed to horror films then you’ll probably be the one saying “It’s in the corner,” or “If you walk down that cellar, something very bad is going to happen.” – not the one covering your eyes and sinking lower in your chair. Horror films are so brilliant for the psyche because fear is such a strong emotion, and James Wan knows where to drag it out and hide it.
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush in the form of a film, ‘The Conjuring’ will surprise you where most modern horror films fault. With an eerie score and a gross of $100 million (with an approx budget of $20 million), it has certainly exceeded expectations.
Review:Â When the music stops, keep watching.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Starring: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Ron Livingston, Lili Taylor
Ezra Magazine 