Annabelle (10/3/2014)

Rated R for intense sequences of disturbing violence and terror.

Starring Annabelle Wallis, Ward Horton, Alfre Woodard and Michelle Romano

Directed by John R. Leonetti (The Butterfly Effect 2)

Some legit scares and a creepy doll…classic horror.

John Form has found the perfect gift for his expectant wife, Mia—a beautiful, rare vintage doll in a pure white wedding dress. But Mia’s delight with Annabelle does not last long. On one horrific night, their home is invaded by members of a satanic cult, who violently attack the couple. Spilled blood and terror are not all they leave behind. The cultists have conjured an entity so malevolent that nothing they did will compare to the sinister conduit to the damned that is now…Annabelle.

Please be aware that like The Conjuring, this film is “based on a true story” and filled with satanic and demonic images and themes. As Christians, I believe we should be very careful when it comes to these issues.

That being said, I’ll spend a minute or two talking about some things the filmmakers did right–trying to separate the film as art in the message of the film. First of all the actors are spot on. They make you feel that you are back in the 70’s and that they are genuinely terrified.

Secondly, the (relatively new) director crafts a very scary, very intense horror film that manages to make you extremely uncomfortable when the only thing on the screen is a doll.

Finally there are the effects, and besides the dog itself, there are some very cool shots including a curtain that moves and when a child runs at Mia, comes through the door and turns into a full-grown woman–very creepy, very well done.

The film is well made and scary, but due to the satanic nature, I personally cannot score this any higher than “Skip it.”

Should Kids See It?
I would say no. Besides the intense sequences of violence and terror, I would steer kids away from the satanic and demonic themes.

Conversation Starter:

1. What are your top three fears?


2. When was the last time you were really afraid?


3. When you are afraid, where do you look for help?

Read Psalm 121

I look to the hills! Where will I find help? It will come from the Lord, who created heaven and earth. The Lord is your protector, and he won’t go to sleep or let you stumble. The protector of Israel doesn’t doze or ever get drowsy. The Lord is your protector, there at your right side to shade you from the sun. You won’t be harmed by the sun during the day or by the moon at night. The Lord will protect you and keep you safe from all dangers. The Lord will protect you now and always wherever you go.


4. What are some reasons we can look to the Lord for help?


5. What is going on right now in your life that you need God’s help with?