Dolls. Strange aren’t they? Some are cute, some are ugly, and some are possessed. The sequel to supernatural horror Annabelle (2014) was released last month, having grossed over an impressive $267.3 million since its opening weekend.
A refreshing entry into a worn-out genre
Set in 1950s rural and dusty California, Sam and Esther Mullins are broken. Twelve years previously, their beloved daughter Annabelle, ‘Bee’ (Samara Lee) was killed in a car accident, sparking the end of their once happy and care free family dynamic. A keen doll-maker by trade, Sam (Anthony LaPaglia) is renowned for his unique and wonderful designs, but its only when an unknown entity asks permission to transfer itself into one of his creations that he realises his daughter’s spirit is most certainly still alive. The family begin to embrace Bee’s spirit, noting her presence about their home and in their lives. But as time goes on, it’s clear that their daughter’s spirit isn’t exactly as it seems.
To help bring an ounce of goodness into their fractured lives, the Mullins’ welcome Sister Charlotte (Stephanie Sigman) and six orphans into their home, but just as the girls begin to settle into their new surroundings, Bee’s evil spirit comes out to play. The storyline is a solid mixture of drama and horror, coupled with intense and strained moments of fear and violence; with a final layer of classic horror movie material. Take the special effects used on Annabelle’s face during a fiery confrontation with curious orphan, Janice (Talitha Bateman). Its monstrous charm pays homage to typical horror films we all know and love, lending this film it’s own slice of gruesome character.
Petrifying technical prowess
Director David F. Sandberg did a fine job at shooting the action from angles intended to cause the viewer some amount of frustration and fright, using numerous elements such as the location, events and superb acting from the younger members of the cast to channel his creative energy towards. Countless scenes were made instantly more unwatchable purely by the way in which they were shot; point of view and panning angles ensured this film delivered its content in an intriguing and skilful manner.
For someone who isn’t overly into horror films of any kind, Annabelle: Creation struck a chord. I was intrigued, scared and breathless all at once. The balance between presenting the storyline wasn’t overridden with the need to fright, with many scenes working their way to an explosive climax, as opposed to giving the viewer a gruesome sequence at every opportunity.
The Verdict
Cleverly presented and skilfully layered with elements of the time period, the action brings about a curious and sympathetic response. From unique camera work, to fine acting and the portrayal of the Mullins’ tragic story, Annabelle: Creation is certainly worth a watch.
Rating: 8.5/10
Words by Paige Bradshaw