The Nun II – Film Review

Many fans of The Conjuring Universe, including myself, were left disappointed and underwhelmed when The Nun appeared on our screens in 2018. Michael Chaves‘ The Nun II, a compelling sequel that successfully saves the franchise, comes as a welcome surprise. This film is an exciting and unsettling addition to the series with a screenplay by Ian Goldberg, Richard Naing, and Akela Cooper based on Cooper’s story.

Father Noiret and Jacques, two clergymen, see a terrifying incident in 1956 in Tarascon, France, which serves as the story’s opening point. The audience is thrust into the world of supernatural horror in this tense opening scene.

In the present, Sister Irene (Taissa Farmiga) is leading a solitary life in Italy while still being troubled by her experiences at Saint Cartha’s monastery. One of the survivors of the previous encounter, Maurice (Jonas Bloquet), is now employed by a French boarding school. Sister Debra (Storm Reid), a new character in the movie, defies authority to accompany Irene on her mission to fight the evil force that has reemerged.

The storylines of the characters are expertly woven together in the film, resulting in a mounting sense of impending doom. Irene becomes interested in a string of suspicious deaths across Europe after having visions of Maurice in trouble, which eventually lead her to Tarascon.

The Nun II has excellent visual storytelling. Chaves uses a variety of strategies to incite unease and tension. The use of ominous, moody backdrops, unsettling sound effects, and strategically placed jump scares keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Irene is choked by Valak (Bonnie Aarons) in a scene that is particularly intense and demonstrates Chaves’ talent for creating tense scenes.

In comparison to The Nun, The Nun II‘s character development is noticeably better. Sister Irene is portrayed by Taissa Farmiga in a convincing and emotionally charged way. Her character’s internal conflicts and resolve to fight evil are authentically and deeply conveyed. In an ideal world, Farmiga would be nominated for an Oscar for this performance. Sister Debra, played by Storm Reid, adds a new perspective to the narrative along with a touch of youthful innocence and curiosity. Irene and Debra’s relationship is skillfully crafted and gives their characters depth.

When the two look into the background of the demon they are fighting, the plot of the film takes an interesting turn. The story becomes more complex when it is revealed that Valak was an angel who God had rejected. The pursuit of the St. Lucy’s eyes relic and the demon’s motivation behind it keep the audience interested.

In the abandoned chapel at the boarding school, Sophie (Katelyn Rose Downey) is taunted by her classmates in one of the film’s most memorable scenes. Both visually arresting and symbolic, the mosaic’s depiction of the goat’s glowing red eye. The film’s climax is effectively set up in this scene.

The Nun II explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and the strength of love while maintaining its horror roots with frightful moments and gory imagery. Irene’s insight that prayer can change wine into the blood of Christ is an original and thought-provoking turn that deepens the conclusion of the story.

The actors in the film give admirable performances. The film’s protagonist, Taissa Farmiga, carries the bulk of the narrative admirably. The internal conflict that Maurice experiences as he battles the demonic presence inside of him is effectively portrayed by Jonas Bloquet. Katelyn Rose Downey shines as the frightened but tenacious Sophie, and Storm Reid gives Sister Debra’s character a newfound energy.

The film occasionally veers off course without actually showing anything spooky, and it’s at these points where it starts to drag. A twist in the third act can feel a little corny, but not enough to detract from the overall viewing experience. Some scenes will also be more entertaining than others.

The Nun II significantly outperforms its predecessor. While the cast gives strong performances, Michael Chaves demonstrates his talent for writing suspenseful and visually stunning horror sequences. The movie successfully saves the series by offering a compelling narrative with real scares and provocative themes. I strongly advise giving the sequel a chance if, like me, you were let down by the first The Nun. You might be pleasantly surprised by what it has to offer.