Good horror movie with old fashioned scares.

Rating: 9/10 (3 August 2013)

Reportedly based on true story, renowned paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, are called upon to investigate the most frightening & baffling case of their career. In 1971, Roger and Carolyn Perron have left suburban New Jersey with their five daughters to move to Rhode Island. But Perrons' hope for a peaceful new start is soon ruined by a powerful otherworldly entity intent on waging war against them. James Wan, director of Saw and Insidious, injects a relatively tired concept with some life here, via a neat narrative spin. Unlike most haunted house thrillers, The Conjuring doesn't focus solely on the family terrorized by a demonic entity from beyond the grave. Instead, screenwriters give us tandem narratives, framing the story within the history of the Warrens. It's a smart move, preventing us from growing too irritated with the Perron family. Wilson and Farmiga are personable and great at conveying hidden pain while Taylor and Livingston are authentic and likable. There's a lot here you'll have seen before if you're a fan of the genre. The Perrons' dog is spooked out upon arrival at the farmhouse, Roger feels compelled to investigate the dark, dangerous basement, and if a character in jeopardy suddenly pauses in apparent relief, you can be sure something will make you jump in around few seconds time. The body count is low, bloodshed is minimal & gore effects are limited to minimal towards the end. Is The Conjuring scariest movie ever made? No. But that doesn't stop film from being an enjoyable thrill ride in theater.