The 2014 American supernatural horror film Annabelle was produced by Peter Safran and James Wan, written by Gary Dauberman, and directed by John R. Leonetti. It stars Annabelle Wallis, Ward Horton, and Alfre Woodard. The film is a spin-off prequel to the 2013 film The Conjuring, focusing on the origins of the Annabelle doll found in that film.
Plot
The movie follows a young, expecting couple, Mia and John Form, whose idyllic life takes a dark turn when satanic cultists invade their home. During the attack, the cultists perform a ritual in the couple’s nursery, conjuring an evil entity that attaches itself to a vintage porcelain doll named Annabelle.
Soon, Mia and John begin to experience a series of terrifying paranormal occurrences, all centered around the doll. The doll moves independently, writes blood messages, and even attacks Mia. As the attacks escalate, Mia seeks the help of a paranormal investigator, Evelyn Perrone. Evelyn realizes that the entity attached to the doll is not just naughty but pure evil, and she and Mia must work together to stop it before it claims another soul.
Themes
It explores several themes, including the power of evil, motherhood’s vulnerability, and faith’s importance. The film also delves into the concept of demonic possession and how seemingly innocent objects can be used for evil purposes.
Critical Reception
It was a critical and commercial success. The film grossed over $257 million worldwide on a budget of $6 million, making it one of the most profitable horror films ever. Critics praised the film’s atmosphere, scares, and the cast’s performances, notably Annabelle Wallis.
Legacy
It led to three sequels: Annabelle: Creation (2017), Annabelle Comes Home (2019), and Annabelle Makes Me a Star (2023). It also strengthened the Conjuring Universe, a horror film series based on the investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren.
Additional Notes
The haunted Raggedy Ann doll, inspiring Annabelle, is in the Ed and Lorraine Warren Occult Museum in Monroe, Connecticut.
The filmmakers completed shooting the film in just 28 days.
