The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Delivering more than its fair share of scares, the follow-up to director James Wan’s 2013 hit horror-film, The Conjuring, continues its almost-flawless cinematic realisation with a  aesthetically pleasing, atmospherically fitting and particularly creepy sequel.

Set in 1976, The Conjuring 2 is once again centred on paranormal investigators Ed (Wilson) and Lorraine (Farmiga) Warren who are living at the height of their infamy following their involvement in the highly controversial ‘Amityville Horror’ case.  After encountering a horrifying demon during one of their sessions at the old Lutz home, the couple decides that it’s time to give their profession a little rest.

Meanwhile, in Enfield, U.K, Peggy Hodgson (O’Connor) and her four children are being terrorised by a mysterious and malevolent demonic presence that has developed a keen interest in her youngest daughter, Janet (the wonderful Ms. Wolfe). Enlisted by the Catholic Church to fly over and investigate the case – which at this point has been dubbed as ‘England’s Amityville’ – Ed and Lorraine find themselves against an unknown evil entity whose power is yet to be tested.   

The Conjuring 2 proves to be yet another chilling and skilfully-executed horror tale from Saw director James Wan, who has allegedly turned down the opportunity to direct Fast 8 for an ‘life-altering’ amount of money, in order to continue his work here – and horror fans will be glad he did.

The biggest cliché in Hollywood is that no sequel can ever top its predecessor; but in this particular case, The Conjuring 2 bucks the trend. Expanding on the old in order to bring in the new, everything about the story feels tighter and more focused. The lingering, creepy mood is just right and the camera work in particular is remarkable, with Wan’s admiration of 70’s and 80’s horror movies evident throughout.

Wilson and Farmiga are strong in their respective roles and while Farmiga is given a little bit more to do this time around, they are both equally deserving of plaudits. Their onscreen chemistry is easy and palpable, which serves the story well, while thirteen year-old British-born actress, Madison Wolfe, is absolutely outstanding as the possessed young child whose identity is slowly being swallowed up by something from within.

Overall, The Conjuring 2 is a successfully frightening follow-up which will keep fans, and newcomers, happy and satisfied. While there are moments of predictability to be found, the story’s two-hour-plus running time never, ever feels like a chore.