So, how did I feel about the film? Like many horror fans, after the trailer for The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It was released, I was elated to have a story that took us inside the courtroom. I wanted to discover just how Arne Cheyenne Johnson and his lawyer with a plea of not guilty by reason of demonic possession, argued and walked away with a mere 10-20 year sentence for manslaughter for the death of Alan Bono. Johnson ended up serving only five years for good behavior, marrying Debbie Glatzel, and living happily ever after.

I’m sad to say, we didn’t get the horror infused court-room drama many of us hoped for. In its place, is an occultist whodunit, glorifying the Warrens as the Saviors of the day and tossing in a few demonic possessions for good measure. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It has a strong first act, beginning with the possession and attempted exorcism of David Glatzel. However, it quickly plunges into a narrative that is more focused on the Warrens and their love story conquering all than the murder victim or the possessed parties. The true story that inspired this embellished cinematic experience is more interesting than the film itself.

The film is worth watching, and I’d do it again. While I had high expectations that weren’t met, this is not a bad film, however outlandish the story seems to be. If you enjoy horror wrapped in a murder mystery and served on thick, this super-national thriller is probably one you’ll enjoy. I won’t pretend that it didn’t leave me questioning whether the supposed true story is an absolute ruse, but according to Debbie Glatzel and Arne Johnson, every word of the Warrens account of his possession is true.