Predictably creepy, lack of good horror
Just when we thought we had seen everything in The Conjuring Universe, another thrilling story is born.
The story is set in the year 1981 when the Warrens are called to the Glatzels’ family house, where eight-year-old David is showing signs of progressive possession.
While the Warrens fight to give the Glatzels some peace and manage to save David, they don’t realize that it was just the beginning. As things seem to have calmed down Debbie Glatzels’ boyfriend, Arne Johnson begins to have frightening experiences.
Arne is caught walking down the side of the road by the police, but what caught their eye was the amount of blood on his white shirt. After being arrested for the murder of a man, Arne denies that he committed the crime and Debbie is the only one who believes him until the Warrens come in.
The story of The Con- juring 3: The Devil Made Me Do It is a different type of story compared to the last two movies in the franchise, making it intriguing. While the audience is used to the Warrens dealing with spirits, the third franchise dives into the concept of witchcraft.
Although the thought of a different storyline is interesting, the events that occur can be described as predictable.
There were several parts that I hoped would come as a shock to me but never really did meet my expectation as it was seen coming from a mile away. One shocking revelation that came was the use of necromancy which I wouldn’t consider scary but creepy. I don’t think anyone would like a dead overly exposed man chasing them in the dark.
Even though events were predictable, something that always keeps me interested in the films is that we always learn more about Ed and Lorraine’s relationship as well as their hopes and fears. Throughout the film, Ed’s worry for Lorraine’s safety is shown now more than ever, especially as he is used as a pawn to hurt her several times.
Ruairi O’ Connor does an amazing job when it comes to playing a young man being haunted by terrible hallucinations. He portrays the fear and paranoia that Arne experienced very well that in some ways you can feel as though you are experiencing it too.
Of course, the film wouldn’t be anything without Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson who never disappoint as they have been doing thrillers for years. Both actors have a way of representing the love that Ed and Lorraine shared throughout their years together and the protectiveness they have for each other.
Overall, this horror thriller may not live up to the original in the franchise but if you are a fan of the movies and like the feeling of a slight case of goosebumps running down your arms then this is the movie for you.
If you are interested in watching the film, it is available on HBO Max until July 4 and is in theaters.