A solid prequel to 2014’s underwhelming original, “Annabelle: Creation” has more in common with “Ouija: Origin of Evil” than its own predecessor: Namely, it manages to outshine the first film, eschewing all the clunky elements that marred it and instead keeping things simple and straightforward. While the screenplay by Gary Dauberman is a bit subpar, its faults are eclipsed by the sure-handed direction of David F. Sandberg. As with his previous directorial effort, 2016’s “Lights Out,” he crafts a surprisingly effective, often terrifying horror entry that will surely be enjoyed by horror fans.
Rating: ★★★ (out of 5)
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