The Conjuring - B

Rated R, 112 minutes

"The Conjuring" a familiar but chilling fact-based horror-story

Vera Farmiga

We all love a good horror story, especially when it's (supposedly) true. That's the case with the new horror film "The Conjuring," which is inspired by a story from the investigators behind "The Amityville Horror." While it lacks some shock value and seems all-too familiar, it has enough chills to keep you engaged. The film tells the true story of Ed and Lorraine Warren (Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga), acclaimed paranormal investigators, who in 1971 were called to help the Perron family (Ron Livingston, Lili Taylor) terrorized by a dark presence in a secluded northeast farmhouse. "The Conjuring" is directed by James Wan of the "Saw" horror film franchise and of 2011's horror hit "Insidious," also starring Wilson. It's due to Wan's expertise in the field, a decent cast and a familiar plot that relies more on the scares than blood-letting that keeps this a slightly above-average, entertaining entry in the hip demon-possessed horror genre. The sluggish script, loosely based on the case files of the Warren's, combines many jumpy elements seen in other horror films, including "The Amityville Horror," The Last Exorcism" and "A Haunting in Connecticut," but the film's two talented lead actresses, Farmiga and indie-film stalwart Taylor, draw you to the story ending in a spirited climax that will have you looking for "The Exorcist's" Max Von Snydow and Ellen Burstyn. What it lacks in genuine shock value is made up by Farmiga's sympathetic Lauren Bacall-like rapture that had me entranced from the first frame (her real-life character is still living and approved of the film), and Taylor's memorable, dark turn as a possessed Mom committed to her family. "The Conjuring" is a surprisingly tame for its R-rating, but it's still a serviceable thriller, thanks to two fine actresses and an experienced horror film director who adds a few nice, creepy touches (one ugly doll, an old music box and one nasty looking tree among them) without becoming too violent. Worth a look for horror film enthusiasts, and stay over for the credits to see a few pics of the real people who inspired the movie.

Wes's Grade: B