The Nun II
The Conjuring & The Nun introduced to the world one of the most deeply unsettling demonic entities of modern times. Now the sequel, The Nun II, looks to expand on the origin story of Valak & further tie this prequel series in with The Conjuring universe proper.
Set in 1956 & continuing on directly from its predecessor The Nun II sees Sister Irene tasked with investigating a series of strange deaths believed to be linked to the demon nun, Valak. Taking inspiration from the likes of The Da Vinci Code the film then has Sister Irene & her friend/partner Sister Debra traversing Europe investigating the scenes of the deaths while searching for clues & religious artefacts. Incorporating this murder-mystery element into the film gives The Nun II its own unique spin on The Conjuring universe while still maintaining the ever-present unsettling, creepy factor.
The Nun II has jump scares a plenty & a plethora of deeply unsettling moments thanks to disturbing imagery or a sense of being watched from the darkness.
Director Michael Chaves plays on the audience's prior knowledge of Valak & uses a number of shots of nuns to up the creepy factor & heighten the sense of shock when Valak finally appears. Chaves doesn't solely rely on Valak for scares, however, as he introduces another highly disturbing manifestation of the demon which will undoubtedly have audiences screaming & squirming in their seats. The film also uses the trope of scary, ghostly children, bugs & crows to add to the fright factor - all of which make The Nun II a terrifying experience.
Thematically, The Nun II is built upon the idea of questioning faith, which mostly works well. The story is however let down with an all too convenient resolution to the end of the film that unfortunately drained the life out of the film's overall impact.
All in all, The Nun II is a solid entry into The Conjuring universe which further expands it by adding more depth & nuance to the characters. The Nun II is terrifying & had me leave the theatre feeling deeply unsettled, in large part thanks to the end credits, which were perhaps the most disturbing element of the film.
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