Movie Review: Annabelle: Creation (2017)
Synopsis:
"Annabelle: Creation" is a prequel to the 2014 film "Annabelle," which itself is part of the "Conjuring" universe created by James Wan. Directed by David F. Sandberg, the film delves into the origins of the cursed doll, Annabelle, revealing how it became an object of terror. The story begins with a tragic event in the life of a couple, Samuel and Esther Mullins (played by Anthony LaPaglia and Miranda Otto), who lose their young daughter, Bee, in a horrific accident. Devastated by their loss, they decide to create a doll in her likeness, only for it to be possessed by an evil spirit.
Years later, the Mullins invite a group of orphaned girls and their caretaker, Sister Charlotte (Stephanie Sigman), to stay in their secluded farmhouse. As the girls arrive, they discover the remnants of tragedy that haunt the home, including the eerie collection of dolls in Esther’s workshop. One of the girls, Janice (Talitha Bateman), who is crippled by polio and feels increasingly isolated, begins to explore the secrets of the house and unwittingly awakens the malevolent force contained within the Annabelle doll. As the sinister events unfold, the girls must confront the dark entity that threatens their lives, leading to chilling encounters and a desperate battle for survival.
Cast of Characters:
- Talitha Bateman as Janice
- Stephanie Sigman as Sister Charlotte
- Anthony LaPaglia as Samuel Mullins
- Miranda Otto as Esther Mullins
- Lulu Wilson as Linda
- Philippa Coulthard as Carol
- Grace Fulton as Nancy
- Samara Lee as Bee
- Adam Bartley as Father Burke
- Keith Arthur Bolden as Police Officer
Review:
"Annabelle: Creation" serves as a refreshing and engaging addition to the horror genre, expertly weaving together suspenseful elements with a haunting narrative that explores themes of grief, love, and the terrifying consequences of loss. The film excels in establishing an unsettling atmosphere, making use of the director’s adept handling of both visual and auditory frights.
From the outset, the film draws the audience into a world steeped in melancholy and dread. The backstory of the Mullins family is both tragic and impactful, evoking empathy that is crucial to understanding the origins of the doll’s evilness. Anthony LaPaglia and Miranda Otto deliver performances that efficiently convey the depth of their characters’ sorrow, establishing a powerful foundation for the haunting events that follow.
The cinematography by Maxime Alexandre enhances the film’s creepy aesthetic, with shadowy corners, dim lighting, and sweeping camera angles that evoke a sense of foreboding. The farmhouse setting is a character in its own right, contributing to the overall tension and sense of isolation experienced by the orphaned girls. The film captures the incongruity of childhood innocence juxtaposed with the stark terror of an ancient evil lurking just out of sight.
The cast of young actors brings a palpable sense of authenticity to their roles. Talitha Bateman’s portrayal of Janice is particularly noteworthy; her character’s physical limitations due to polio heighten the sense of vulnerability that permeates the film. As Janice grapples with her newfound fears and the growing supernatural chaos, Bateman effectively communicates both innocence and desperation. Lulu Wilson as Linda also shines, embodying the curious nature of childhood and its potential to cross over into the macabre.
The pacing of the film is commendably steady, with a gradual build-up of suspense that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Rather than relying solely on jump scares, "Annabelle: Creation" employs a more immersive form of horror, allowing the tension to simmer until it reaches a boiling point. The moments of quiet reflection punctuated by visceral terror create a balance that enhances the supernatural elements.
Moreover, the clever use of sound design effectively amplifies the film’s ambience. Every creaking floorboard, rustling curtain, and dissonant note contributes to a soundscape that is both haunting and sublime. The blend of silence followed by sudden bursts of noise keeps audiences in a heightened state of alertness, enhancing the overall immersion into the terrifying world the film presents.
One of the standout aspects of "Annabelle: Creation" is its exploration of the backstory of the titular doll, effectively answering questions raised in the previous film regarding its origins. The narrative shows how the familial bond can be twisted into something grotesque and horrific, ultimately blurring the lines between protection and possession. This layer of complexity elevates the film beyond the typical horror fare; it resonates on a psychological level that lingers long after the credits roll.
Despite its achievements, "Annabelle: Creation" is not without its pitfalls. There are moments where the story dips into clichés typical of the horror genre. Some characters make questionable decisions that can pull audiences out of the experience, leading to bemusement rather than fear. Though the film is rich in atmosphere, the reliance on familiar tropes may frustrate horror aficionados seeking something entirely original.
Additionally, the film builds toward an ending that, while satisfying in its resolution of Janice’s story, may come across as somewhat predictable. It ties up the narrative threads neatly, but some viewers might crave a less conventional conclusion that keeps them guessing until the very end. This predictability doesn’t detract drastically from the overall experience, but it does create a sense of familiarity that might not appeal to all.
In conclusion, "Annabelle: Creation" is a masterfully crafted horror film that does an admirable job of expanding upon the lore of the infamous Annabelle doll. With its poignant exploration of grief and loss, robust performances from a talented cast, and an atmosphere thick with dread, it elevates itself beyond many of its genre peers. Though it may stumble into familiar territory and lean on certain horror tropes, its ability to deliver genuine scares and maintain tension makes it a worthwhile entry in the "Conjuring" universe. Overall, "Annabelle: Creation" stands as a testament to the evolution of horror film making, reminding audiences of the profound effects of loss while simultaneously haunting their dreams.
Score: 8/10
