The films made in the Conjuring franchise have a history of amping me up- for good reason.  I have seldom been disappointed in one of them, save for maybe The Nun.  As a huge fan of Ed and Lorraine Warren, watching these movies makes me feel quite elated.  They are most often made beautifully, mixing shocking theatrical effects with nods to real paranormal events.  

The most recent “Conjuring” installment is based on the events surrounding the Arne Johnson murder trial.  This case was also known as the “Devil Made Me Do It” case, purely because the defendant claimed demonic possession.  Arne Johnson ended up being charged with manslaughter, and served five years in prison for killing his landlord.

I would say that overall, this movie is worth the watch.  It is eerie and compelling, and the acting is beyond up to par.  One of my personal favorite aspects of the film is the unsettling usage of the song “Call Me” by Blondie, which is referenced multiple times.  I don’t think it’s a song I’ll be able to listen to without a looming thought again.  A quality horror movie should instill those types of associative memories.

Most of this movie’s unnerving energy comes from things as little as inflections, facial expressions, and the detail in the scenery.  It’s truly the particulars that remind you something truly terrible is going on here.  

I will say they took quite a few liberties in changing around the Arne Johnson story.  Normally, this is not something I would turn up my nose at, but I genuinely feel that not every artistic choice made a whole lot of cohesive sense.  Although I understood said choices, I do feel a bit of “filler” was added to try and make the story more compelling- but rather than accomplishing this, it just made the whole atmosphere feel a bit more fabricated.

Nevertheless, this does not change the fact that this is a well made and seriously creepy film.  I think it really does touch on your emotions and fill you with a sense of dread.  I would recommend everyone gives it a chance at least once, as well as reading up on the case it was based on.  This is some interesting stuff, and it’s sure to stay with you after the credits have rolled.

Overall, I would give The Conjuring 3 about 3/5 bats.  A more specific rating would be 3.5.  I have to admit, it’s a stunning horror movie… but it isn’t spectacular compared to it’s predecessors.  Although it does not disappoint, it also does not sweep you right off your feet… at least in my case.  With that said, I can appreciate how thoughtfully it was made and I love this franchise.  There were things I loved about this film (the overall atmospheric uneasiness,) but there were also things I could’ve done without (the unnecessary add ons to the story.)  All in all, I believe this is a positive addition to the world of horror, and viewers looking for a scare won’t be discontented.