Annabelle Comes Home

The Conjuring universe has become a well-oiled ghost-train ride and, judging by this expertly assembled sequel to the spin-off, it won't be screeching to a halt anytime soon. Shrewdly scripted and directed by Gary Dauberman (writer of the previous two episodes), this instalment of the possessed-doll saga comes with visually elaborate nightmare imagery at a premium. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return to their roles as demonology duo Ed and Lorraine Warren, but take a back seat as their daughter Judy (Mckenna Grace), her babysitter (Madison Iseman) and recently bereaved best friend Daniela (Katie Sarife) fight evil spirits awakened by Annabelle, who was returned to that creepy artefact room in their basement a year earlier. After dabbling in much creaking and door-knocking foreplay, the film does finally succeed in building up a full head of scream. Once Annabelle's mission to claim a soul unleashes the Ferryman, Blood-spattered Bride, Hellhound and eerie Feeley Meeley game, the scares line up with consistent assurance. The film is dedicated to Lorraine Warren, who died during production.