Scary movies are a dime a dozen. Once you see a good one, that same feeling will never be replicated. This has been showcased with; “The Cabin In The Woods” and last years “Evil Dead” remake. I was rather fond of the whole concept heading into “Annabelle” which is a prequel of sorts to the sensation that was “The Conjuring.” James Wann crafted a viewing experience like no other. A plot that bordered on true and fiction, but slowly drifted apart from other well known horror fare. That film stood ground, inflicted some decent scares, and set a bar. I wish I could say the same positive feedback for “Annabelle” which had the potential to produce all the hype. Instead, falls into a trifecta of normal bumps in the night, children screeching, and long third act build-ups. Aside from a few brush moments of pure genuine scary goodness, there is nothing to brag about.

In case you didn’t see the trailer (which presumably gives almost all the ‘scares’ away), follows a young couple Mia and John Gordon in the midst of a pregnancy in 1970. The good looking John is studying to be a doctor, while Mia is stay at home mom. After John presents Mia with a gift a sorts, a porcelain doll that is priceless for their babies nursery. The same night a cult attacks them, and leaves Mia for dead. Surviving this instance the two move out and start a new. However, the doll has other plans, stalking them upwards to their new home, and thus becoming a target for something far more dangerous than some wood doll.

Director John Leonetti is first and foremost more of a cinematographer than a director. So easily the more entrapping scenes look better than they are written. This should come as no surprise. One thing that did stand out was the use of the doll herself. Annabelle, the doll who gives her name to the title, is eerie and chilling-yet she never moves a muscle (unwillingly of course). This method was actually quite effective. You’re expecting a jolt or two, instead an inanimate object stays just that, inanimate. The story obviously delves much deeper into the background of Annabelle’s sadistic past. I’m sure Chucky and her would have a playdate.

Since these types of films are not seen for their performances, I must commend the ironically named, Annabelle Wallis (portraying the mother Mia Gordon) for her soothe gentleness she brought to her role. I could feel the nurturing mother in her, and this proved to be effective, it was nice having a character to root for. If only the cheaply written script could give her some muscle to work with.

Just two months ago “As Above, So Below” had a strong heroine to root for that was smart and could kick ass while Mia’s character is restrained heavily, and barley packs any punch. As for the scares? For well known horror buffs (such as myself) you will find very little to wince about nor tell your friends. Don’t get me wrong, there are a few moments where I was asking myself “Why did I watch this?” These moments changed when the cheap music cue was playing, and instinctively the lightning flash masqueraded the background. I mean this when I say, watch out for lightning.

“Annabelle” is not horrible, it’s just average which is truly a shame when in comparison to its beloved predecessor. All I can say is, don’t have the highest of expectations, and know there are just so many better movies to watch this season. “Annabelle” is not one of them.

C

Directed By: John Leonettie

Rated: R

Runtime: 98 mins

Release Date: October 3rd 2014

Studio: Warner Bros

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