Rhi Axtell – Writer

Another quick one today, just jumping into the blogging-sphere to talk about one of my favourite horror films: The Conjuring.

Now, if you have even the vaguest interest in horror films, or films in general, you’ve probably heard of this one. It was so popular it launched its own Marvel-Universe-style horror franchise ‘ The Conjuring Universe’ (not the most creatively named, I recognise, but I think they were going more for brand recognition with that one).

But this is numero uno. This is the Iron Man of the franchise, if you’ll forgive me for referencing the Marvel Universe again. Here are some things I love about this film:

1. It’s based on a ‘true story’. The main couple who lead the franchise, ‘The Warrens’, are based on two actual people and events that were definitely happening and one hundred percent real and don’t think too much about it because that makes it more fun and creepy.
2. This film is just a smorgasbord of spooky. It’s got ghosts. Creepy dolls. Possession. Something for everyone!
3. It does that thing were the main character looks in a mirror and there is something spooky happening behind then but then they turn around and there is nothing there – spooky! I love that trope.
4. It goes from vaguely spooky, to super horrifying, to just hilarious. The final scenes with spooky stuff happening in the basement made me laugh so hard and left me with a smile on my face. I like a horror film that undermines itself so much that you get to be scared and finish with a fun memory. No trouble sleeping for me!

I have watched The Conjuring multiple times. And I will watch it again, I am sure (my wife hasn’t seen it, so I’m looking forward to introducing her to it this year on Halloween!)

Weirdly, I have just written a whole blog post about how much I love this film… but have I have to confess that I have never seen any other films in the Conjuring Universe. There is a whole universe for me to explore but I have never felt the need. Strange. Maybe that is something I need to rectify. Perhaps this month. Perhaps I will write another blog post on it… hmm.

See you tomorrow!