The Conjuring

Spooky in parts

The Conjuring is directed by James Wan the guy who gave us Saw (2004) and Insidious(2010) two really good horror films. The trailer of this film is sure to make every horror fan run to the theatre. Since it's based on a true story watching it makes it all the more shiver worthy. Ed and Lorraine Warren(Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga) are a husband and wife team who investigate paranormal occurrences. Lorraine is also a clairvoyant who can feel energies at places. In the early 70's one case brings them in contact with the Perron family(Ron Livingston and Lilli Taylor) who are haunted by something that would become the most difficult case for the Warrens.

Thanks to the period setting, the film is shot and structured like a classic horror films. A refreshing change from the horror films set in present times. It is visually stunning but didn't scare me to the extent I was expecting. Besides the regular horror tropes two things stand out. One involves a toy with a mirror and the other involves a hide and clap game.

Vera Farmiga and Lili Taylor are the emotional core of the film. They make you care and fear for their individual families. One reason for me not getting scared is that even though the film is based on a true story it doesn't come across as one. It looks more polished than its story. There are a couple of moments that jolts you thanks to the use of sound design but this is not a horror film that nibbles at your mind.

Word of mouth - not the scare fest that the trailer promised but has enough spookiness to keep you engaged

Rating - *** ½ (Solid)

Ticket meter - worth 200 bucks