Review by Laucha ·
Synopsis
Ed and Lorraine Warren travel to Enfield, north of London, to investigate one of the most documented poltergeist cases in history. The Hodgson family — a single mother with four kids — is being tormented by an entity manifesting through the youngest daughter, Janet. But as the Warrens investigate, Lorraine has visions of a far more powerful demonic presence threatening not only the Hodgsons, but Ed too.
Analysis
The Conjuring 2 had the near-impossible task of living up to the first film, and it pulls it off with flying colors. James Wan expands the Warren universe with a more ambitious production without losing what made the original work. The sequence with the painting of the Nun Valak — that shot where she steps out of the canvas — is one of the best horror scenes of the decade. Wan handles tension masterfully: the use of the Crooked Man toy, the long tracking shots through the dark hallways of the Hodgson house, the sound design that puts your nerves on edge. The 1970s England setting is meticulously crafted.
Performances
Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga are even better than in the first film. The scene where Ed sings Elvis's 'Can't Help Falling in Love' to the Hodgson family is a moment of brilliant human warmth that raises the stakes even further. Madison Wolfe as Janet Hodgson is exceptional — her performance during the possessions, switching between old man Bill Wilkins's voice and her own terrified voice, is impressive for such a young actress. Frances O'Connor as Peggy Hodgson conveys the desperation of a mother who can't protect her children.
Final Verdict
4 solid skulls. It's a sequel that respects what came before it and builds something of its own. The Nun Valak became a modern horror icon for a reason — her design is perfect, her presence is ominous. If the first proved commercial horror can be art, the second proved it can be consistent.
Final score
4/5 skulls
