In 1981 Arne Johnson (Ruairi O’Conner) stabbed his landlord to death. Ed (Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine Warren (Vera Farmiga) knew that this act was not committed by Arne but by the demon in possession of his body. Setting out to prove Arne’s innocence may lead them into dangers even they are unable to survive. 

The Conjuring universe is now eight films large but the core films featuring the Warrens have always been their strong point. This core trilogies strength lays in its two lead characters and its efforts to present itself as true story. The Devil Made Me Do It follows that trend and is another really entertaining horror film. 

Opening with an exorcism that has nods to both The Exorcist and Psycho the film sets up an enjoyable tension as we wait for our newly possessed protagonist to snap. What follows is an investigation procedural in a race against time before his murder trial begins. It kind of feels like the Warrens are Perry Mason’s investigator who will find the true villain in the nick of time. Except with demons. 

Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson are perfect again as the Warrens. Now in their third outing together they are completely believable as a couple of thirty years who hold steadfast in their supernatural beliefs. And I think it is their commitment and believability that really sells the horror in these films.

My only real complaint may or may not be a projection issue at my local cinema or the fact that apparently lightbulbs in 1981 were insufficient to actually light any room. Whilst I appreciate darkness and shadow is vital to a horror film sometimes you need to be able to see something to actually be scared of it. Let me know how your screening was or perhaps I will see again on home release. 

Forget The Conjurings extended universe, the real deal is back. Oh and stay for the first half of the credits if you are a true believer.