Synopsis – A couple begin to experience terrifying supernatural occurrences involving a vintage doll shortly after their home is invaded by satanic cultists.

My Take – The creepy doll from The Conjuring (2013), one of the best horror flicks of all time, gets her own movie, whats not to like? Unfortunately Annabelle doesn’t bring any tense build-up nor does she explode in big climax.

It sure has some really effective jump scares, probably among the nastiest ones we have seen in a while; must give that to the director John R. Leonetti, but you just cant shake of the feeling of disappointment. There can only be some much they can squeeze from the doll close up and screeching voices. As a prequel and spin-off of The Conjuring – 2013’s highly effective horror film – Annabelle does what it promises, even if it does so one jump and one jolt at a time.

But that’s all you get, jumpy scenes done to perfection, with little or no atmosphere and a story that disintegrates before it reaches a satisfying conclusion. If it wasn’t for the Conjuring marketing, this will be remembered as another average horror film.

Director – John R. Leonetti
Starring – Ward Horton, Annabelle Wallis, Alfre Woodard
Rated – R
Run Time – 98 minutes