Strong horror

Rating: 8/10 (22 July 2013)

Following his first rate work on the terrific Insidious, director James Wan takes on the alleged true story of the Perron family haunting of Rhode Island told from the perspective of the ghost hunters involved, Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film may not add much that's new to the genre but it's so strikingly well made on every level that it sets it apart from other standard haunted house/demon Possession flicks. Most of the credit goes to Wan who understands pace and atmosphere and it's importance in creating suspense. The screenplay wisely fleshes out the characters enabling audiences to care about their faith. Coupled with the excellent performances by Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga and especially the always flawless Lili Taylor in the movie's most challenging role. There are some half baked supporting characters and some leaps in believability in the true story department but these small incongruities don't detract from the whole experience. This is a strong horror film made with a lot of care and respect for its subject. There's intelligence behind the scares here and a revitalization of mood and style over unnecessary gore and tired clichés.